What Does the Home Inspector Assess on the Exterior of the Property During Inspection?
A home inspection is one of the most important steps when buying or selling a home. This service permits each party to evaluate the property's condition, allowing them to identify if any issues can impact the homeowners' safety or the house's value. Most people think that home inspection includes checking a few significant components of a home to make the overall evaluation. Contrary to their belief, many parts are evaluated in an inspection, both on the interior and exterior parts of a home, before understanding the structural health of the property. This article will explore what a home inspection includes and expand more on what home inspectors assess on the property's exterior during inspection. If you want to learn more, call Atlanta Property Inspections today.
What Does A Home Inspection Include?
A home inspection is the evaluation of a property’s condition. To do this, professional inspectors follow specific checklists and assess the property's condition. Let’s look at what a home inspection includes:
- Structural Parts of a Home: Evaluating a home's structural elements includes evaluating the walls, ceilings, and foundations. Inspecting these elements is crucial to ensure there isn’t any damage or deterioration that may be a future safety hazard for the homeowner.
- The Roofing: Without proper roofing, homeowners will face constant leaks, water intrusions, pest infestations, and structural damage. Inspectors ensure to note if there is any damage on the roof or missing shingles.
- Plumbing System: The plumbing system is one of a home's most essential parts. An inspector looks for signs of visible leaks, corrosion, or drainage disorders. They may also check fixtures connected to the plumbing system, such as water heaters and related pipes, to detect clogs or potential failures.
- Electrical System: A safe electric system is essential to prevent fire and electrocution risks to home residents. Inspectors check the electrical panel, outlets, wiring, and circuit breakers to ensure everything meets safety standards.
- HVAC System: The HVAC system is inspected to note the effectiveness and functionality of the heating or cooling units and the ventilation around the house.
- Other Interior Components: In addition to the components mentioned above, home inspectors can also check minor interior components like windows, stairs, and floors to see if they are in working condition.
- Major Exterior Components: Some major exterior components, including windows, doors, decks, and more, are also inspected. In the following section, we will explore these components more.
What Is Assessed on the Exterior of a Property During an Inspection?
- Roof & Gutters: Roofs and gutters are inspected to ensure that they are intact and that water is properly drained away from the house's foundation.
- Siding: Siding is a protective material attached to the exterior of a house that defends it against weather, impacts, and insects.
- Foundation: The inspectors check outside the home to see if there is any visible damage on the foundation. If there is any structural shifting or sliding, it is noted and reported immediately.
- Windows & Doors: Windows and doors are inspected to ensure they are correctly aligned and that the weatherstripping is functioning effectively.
- Driveway: Lastly, the driveways are also checked to see any cracks or trip hazards for the homeowner.
Atlanta Property Inspections
Do you want to feel confident you are buying the right house? A professional home inspection company in Marietta, GA will provide you with thorough and professional service that you can trust. At Atlanta Property Inspections, we have over 25 years of industry experience, ASHI-certified inspectors, and a buyer protection plan. Call us today to learn more about us and our services.