Home inspectors play an important role in the process of purchasing a home. They help buyers by ensuring that homes and investment properties do not contain serious issues–which could lead to expensive repairs down the road. After completing your home inspector training and earning your certification, you’ll be working with clients to examine all the details of homes–advising them accordingly. As a home inspector, it’s your responsibility to ensure that buyers are aware of the potential issues within their future home. Thus, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection in which all problem areas are identified. Your findings will indicate the current living conditions of a home and will impact a buyer’s decision on whether to proceed with purchasing the home.
When conducting a home inspection, keeping a few important things in mind will enhance your ability to successfully account for all possible issues within a home. Check out the infographic below to discover five things you should remember once you begin your home inspector career.
[Infographic] 5 Things To Remember When Conducting a Home Inspection
Examine the Roof
When inspecting a home’s roof, check for:
- Leaks
- Dirty or clogged vents
- Missing, damaged, or loose shingles
- The integrity of the chimney’s structure
Did you know? 39% of home insurance claims involve roof problems.
Look Out for Drainage Problems
Drainage issues can lead to water damage. Look for:
- Functioning gutters and spouts
- Water damage beneath a home’s floor (use an infrared camera)
- Moisture stains on the ceiling
Check for Electrical Hazards
Ensure that a home’s electrical system is functioning properly by:
- Checking that the system is up to code
- Verifying that all light switches work
- Testing each electrical outlet
- Testing circuit breakers
Determine Whether the Foundation is Stable
A home’s foundation is vital to its safety and stability. Look for:
- Cracks
- Signs of water damage
- Sloping floors
Investigate for Health Hazards
Test for the following using the appropriate device:
- Radon
- Asbestos
- Lead (may be present in paint)
When you remember to check for these five things, you’ll be sure to conduct a thorough inspection!
Sources:
https://archive.curbed.com/2016/6/21/11925150/home-inspections-questions-checklist
https://www.cibc.com/en/personal-banking/mortgages/resource-centre/home-inspection.html
https://themortgagereports.com/37715/home-inspection-checklist-what-to-expect-on-inspection-day
