Axios Home Inspection is a systematic process of walking through the property and assessing its condition. A typical home inspector’s checklist includes examining the plumbing for signs of leakage, checking the water heater, and confirming functioning alarm systems and outlets.
Major defects are also noted, such as roof damage and foundation shifts. If these issues are severe, they can derail a sale.
An electrician will look at every outlet in a home and any wiring hidden within walls and in the attic or crawl space. They’ll also check the main panel and any additional panels.
They’ll test outlets to make sure they have working GFCIs, which are required in rooms where moisture is present (like the kitchen and bathrooms). Non-working or improperly functioning GFCIs could indicate bigger electrical issues like unpermitted work or faulty wiring.
Outdated electrical panels are another common issue that inspectors find and buyers ask sellers to fix before closing. If the panels are outdated, they may not be able to handle the load of modern appliances, which can lead to overheating and power outages.
An inspector will also check for any old knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum branch circuit wiring, both of which pose serious fire hazards. If the home has either of these, the inspector will recommend an upgrade to copper. They’ll also look for receptacles with “push-in” connections, which are less secure and can lead to wire damage and even fires. The inspector will also note if any outlets appear overloaded. This is a big red flag for potential problems with circuit breakers, which the inspector will recommend getting checked by an electrician as soon as possible.
Homebuyers often overlook the condition of a home’s plumbing. However, a leaky faucet or clogged toilet can quickly lead to serious problems and expensive repairs. Home inspection companies offer plumbing services to help buyers understand the condition of a home’s pipes and drain lines.
A standard home inspection includes a visual examination of the plumbing system. The inspector will check whether the drains work and the toilets flush. In addition, he or she will inspect the condition of the water heater and examine all accessible areas for signs of leaks or deterioration.
In some cases, a plumber may recommend a more in-depth sewer line or water line inspection. A plumber can also perform a camera inspection of a home’s interior to identify issues that cannot be identified through a visual examination.
A homeowner who wants to avoid plumbing problems should regularly conduct maintenance on the pipes and fixtures in their home. For example, homeowners should clean their sink and shower strainers, locate their home’s water shut off valve, and clear out storage areas to make it easier for a plumber to work on the home’s pipes. In addition, homeowners should regularly drain their water heater to remove sediment and prevent corrosion of the internal surfaces.
Home inspection companies provide services that include evaluating heating, cooling, and plumbing systems, as well as assessing structural conditions. The companies may also perform a radon test. They can also inspect the roof and foundation. Some may also offer ancillary services, such as swimming pool inspections, and pest and termite inspections. These services can be very useful, as they provide an in-depth analysis of the property.
When selecting a home inspector, it is important to ask for a sample report. This will help you determine how thorough the company will be. You can also look up the company online to see if there are any complaints. You can also get a recommendation from your real estate agent, family members, or friends.
It is recommended that you attend the home inspection as it will allow you to observe and interact with the inspector. However, it is not mandatory. It is also advisable that you discuss the findings with the inspector after the inspection. This will help you understand the inspection better and make a wise decision. Moreover, it will also help you identify potential problems and negotiate with the seller. In addition, you can request the inspector to recommend contractors who can handle specific repairs.
The roof is another major area a home inspector will examine, checking for leaks and faulty installation that could cause problems. They may also look for missing shingles, loose mastic around vents and chimneys and damaged gutters. They’ll also check the ground to see if it’s in too close contact with the house, which can attract wood-destroying insects.
The inspector’s report will let buyers know what problems the property has, and can help them decide whether to buy it or negotiate with the seller. In some cases, the problems discovered by a home inspection could prevent a sale or lead to costly repairs later on.
It’s important to find a home inspector you can trust, so ask your real estate agent for recommendations. Your family and friends may also be able to recommend someone. It’s also a good idea to do some research before making a decision. Make sure to choose an inspector who has experience conducting home inspections and a good reputation in the community. The right inspector can save you money in the long run by identifying potential issues that need to be addressed before you make an offer on a home.
The attic is a unique area of the home. It can be used as an extra living space, office, or studio. It is a great place to store items that aren’t in use, but it’s important not to keep anything flammable or valuable up there. Having an attic inspection can help make sure that everything is safe.
Home inspectors look at a lot of things in the attic, including the condition of the insulation and whether or not it’s adequate. They also check for signs of moisture and pests. If they find any problems, they will note them in their report. These issues could potentially derail a sale, so it’s important to fix them before the home inspector comes by.
Some of the most common problems found in attics include exposed wiring that should be spliced or terminated, air ducts that aren’t properly sealed, and raccoon and rodent infestations. These issues can cost the homeowner thousands in energy costs, and they can also be a fire hazard. A home inspector can spot these issues and make recommendations for how they can be fixed. They can even offer tips on how to prevent these issues in the future.
Home inspectors examine the exterior of homes to ensure they are safe and in good condition. They also check the roof, chimneys and venting systems. They can detect issues such as cracks in the foundation and rotted wood. They can help buyers avoid costly repairs down the road by identifying potential problems before they sign a contract.
Some companies offer specialty inspection services in addition to home inspections. For example, offers full structural inspections, as well as septic, water well and pool inspections. Its team includes licensed mold assessors and radon and termite inspectors, and it uses software to provide reports. The company serves clients throughout the area.
Unlike home inspectors, property appraisers determine the value of a property. They can identify defects, but they do not provide a complete overview of the structure’s condition. For this reason, it is important to have a comprehensive inspection before purchasing a new home. A home inspector can help buyers understand the condition of a property and negotiate with sellers to make repairs before closing on the deal. Homebuyers should also consider a home warranty to cover repair expenses and maintenance costs.
Home inspectors look at all areas of the interior of a property, including examining stairs and railings; operating alarms (fire and carbon monoxide); and plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical systems. They also check the structure of the house, including basements and foundations. They may also examine the roof and exterior of the building for structural issues.
A disaster inspection, on the other hand, focuses on damage caused by natural disasters, such as floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes. This type of home inspection is a required part of a disaster relief program, such as FEMA. In this case, the inspection identifies damage and determines whether the house meets housing standards.
During the inspection, homebuyers can ask their home inspector questions and discuss any problems they find. Although homebuyers don’t need to be present for the entire inspection, they often find it valuable to see the findings firsthand and interact with their home inspectors.
Many real estate agents and brokers have recommendations for home inspection services. But home buyers should always research multiple companies and make a list of potential options. This will save them time and money in the long run. Also, it will ensure that they aren’t making the wrong decision at the last minute.