Home inspections offer a systematic and thorough evaluation of the condition of the home. The assessment helps to determine the functionality and safety of the home, as well as the general integrity of the entire structure. It is a good way for buyers to find out exactly what they are getting before the purchase is completed. The inspector will carry out various checks on the foundation, roofing, framing, plumbing, electrical system, drainage, home fixtures, walls, floors and everything else in the home.
Getting the right inspection company will help to present a comprehensive picture of the condition of the property. Hiring a company that carries out thermal imaging inspections can help you to get a clear picture of any construction defects. Following are some common defects that most home inspections uncover.
1. Roofing problems resulting from poor installation or wear and tear due to aging are common problems that come up during inspections. In most cases, roof repair is necessary to deal with the issue. Roof leaks evidenced by ceiling stains are also a common issue.
2. Water damage is another common problem that presents itself in basements or crawlspaces. The water damage can cause structural problems especially if it has gone on for a long time. In some cases, major drainage work may be required.
3. Dry rot or rotting wood structures are common especially in areas that experience a lot of rainfall. The rotting can also occur around plumbing fixtures where the wood remains wet for long.
4. Issues with the electrical system are common especially in older homes. The problems may be due to faulty wiring or construction errors. In this case, the entire home may require re-wiring to ensure safety and compliance.
5. Building violations caused by illegal additions or alterations are also common. They occur where the homeowners fail to get the necessary permits before construction.
6. Faulty water heaters and gas heaters are defects that occur on a regular basis. They are usually caused by poor installation or lack of maintenance. Non-compliance with plumbing codes can create unsafe conditions.
There are numerous other defects and they include firewall violations for garages, faulty window seals and plumbing defects like dripping faucets, leaking toilets and poor drainage. The list of things that the inspectors look for can be quite extensive and this goes to show how important the process is. A homebuyer who fails to get an inspection before entering into a purchase agreement risks making a very costly mistake.