4 Items Home Inspectors Don’t Usually Examine

Most home inspectors carefully scrutinize a house completely, many with checklists that may contain in excess of 1,600 features to examine. However, some items call for a specialist for a more thorough evaluation.

4 Items Home Inspectors Don’t Usually Examine

The fireplace and chimney

Inspectors often open and shut dampers to ensure that they’re in working order. Some may shine a flashlight up the chimney to discover any obstructions. But for anything further, buyers likely may need to employ a fireplace inspector to look for specific things like soot and creosote buildup, which can be possible fire-starters. Those extra inspections might cost anywhere from around $80 to $200.

Foundation issues

A geotechnical or structural engineer may be required to be brought in in cases where a buyer has concerns about the ground underneath the home, which include whether any shifting, tilting, or sinkholes have caused damage. Professionals will test the soil for numerous potential issues. Basic testing likely will cost you between $300 and $1,000, while more invasive testing may cost in excess of $5,000. Buyers within a strict budget might consult a free site called PlotScan, which reveals any history of sinkholes as well as other natural catastrophes in the vicinity of the home, to better understand whether or not they need further inspection help.

Well and septic systems

Some home inspectors certified to evaluate septic systems could possibly be happy to do an additional inspection for an added fee to test a home’s well water and septic system. Otherwise, buyers will be required to hire a well inspector. These professionals will collect water samples to test in a lab for coliform, arsenic, as well as other harmful bacteria and chemicals. They’ll also ensure that seals, vents, and screens are actually properly maintained and that the well and pump are producing enough water. That typically is going to cost about $250 for an inspection.

Roof

“We’ll go up on roofs if it’s safe,” says Frank Lesh, executive director of the American Society of Home Inspectors. “But if it’s raining or it’s too high, we’re not able to get to it.” A specialized roof inspection, which costs about $500 to $750, provides a closer look. Some roof inspectors may even do a preliminary consultation for free. Those who don’t go on the roof can sometimes do an infrared inspection to search for any temperature differences along the roof to determine where heat or air conditioning could possibly be escaping.

Previously we had written an article that you may want to take a look at Home Inspector; a few questions to ask prior to hiring someone you found online.

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