Home Inspector Colorado Springs Co can help potential buyers understand the full cost of owning a property. They might reveal major defects, like a leaking roof or serious foundation issues, that could lead to costly repairs or even rescinding the purchase agreement.
A career as a home inspector can offer flexibility and independence. But, like any service-based industry – intense competition floods local markets.
Home inspectors can often identify structural issues in a home. Some are quite severe, while others might be purely cosmetic and not cause for concern. Nevertheless, suppose the inspector feels that there is an issue with the foundation or the structure of the building. In that case, they will likely recommend that their clients consult a structural engineer for more in-depth evaluation.
Structural engineers are licensed professional engineers who specialize in ensuring that the loads a building must bear fit its design. They also provide that buildings are up to current housing codes. They focus on specific areas of a structure and investigate further if something indicates that a problem is occurring.
When the inspector notices cracks in the foundation or walls, they will note the severity and if they indicate that the building is shifting. They will also look for signs of heave, such as when the ground underneath concrete slabs expands and causes the building to go. They will also look for doors and windows that have become misaligned, which may signify a shifting foundation.
Lastly, the inspector will assess the crawl spaces and make sure they are clear of debris. They will also check if the crawl space is well-ventilated and free of excess moisture. Excess water can cause significant damage to a building, including structural problems.
Home inspectors will not only check out your home’s structural systems but also the electrical system. They’ll take off the cover of the service panel, look at all the circuit breakers, and confirm they’re working properly. They’ll also look for wires that aren’t insulated or secure to frame in crawl spaces, attics, and basements.
A common problem with wiring is reversed polarity. This occurs when the neutral and hot wires get mixed up. It’s a major safety issue that can cause shocks and fires. This is often caused by amateur DIY work or unlicensed workers. A professional can fix this by adding circuit breakers or running new wires.
Another common issue is GFCI outlets that must be fixed or trip more often. These outlets are required by building codes in rooms with moisture, such as the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. If an inspector sees these outlets don’t work correctly, it could indicate a larger electrical issue that requires professional help.
Lastly, home inspectors will check for extension cords used as permanent wiring. This is a big fire hazard that can cause wiring to heat up and overheat, possibly leading to a house fire. It’s important only to use extension cords for temporary purposes.
Plumbing is out of sight and often out of mind regarding home inspections, but it shouldn’t be. Leaks can damage the home’s structure, cause dry rot, and contribute to mold growth. Water stains or signs of moisture on the ceiling or walls are indications of water exposure that may require expensive restoration or repair work.
During a home inspection, a professional checks the condition of the house’s plumbing components, including their age and type. Inspectors also look to see that the plumbing provides enough water for the house and drains correctly. They do this by visual examination and limited testing of a few fixtures.
A home inspector will also look for leaks, such as those concealed behind the walls or in the ceiling. These types of leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water per year. They also can lead to mold and mildew, buckling flooring or drywall, and musty smells. They can be spotted with the help of a plumber’s leak detection tool. Still, a home buyer can also look for discoloration on the ceiling or walls, bubbling paint or wallpaper, and sagging or rusting water supply lines that indicate a problem.
Home inspectors evaluate a potential home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to see how well they work or whether they need repairs. They also assess how evenly the system circulates air throughout the house.
Home buyers often get an inspection done before purchasing a property to know more about the state of the house and what maintenance may be needed down the line. Home sellers can also benefit from an inspection because it may allow them to make necessary structural repairs and upgrades before putting their house on the market.
A career as a home inspector can be very rewarding, especially for those who stick with it and become successful. However, the job can also be quite challenging and physically demanding. Inspecting properties involves:
- Working in various weather conditions.
- Crawling under houses.
- Climbing ladders reach high areas which can increase the risk of injury.
To avoid injuries, home inspectors must be very fit and have a strong work ethic. In addition, some home inspectors offer ancillary services like wood-destroying insect inspections, radon testing, and septic tank inspections. This makes it important for homebuyers to research and hire the right home inspector for their specific needs.
The attic is a unique area. It can be used as a studio, office, or entertainment area for some households. A home inspector will examine the attic to determine its condition. He will look for insulation, junction boxes, and the condition of any heating or ventilation ducts. He will also check for water damage.
A house needs more attic insulation to prevent it from consuming more energy than necessary. An inspector will assess the amount of insulation in the attic and compare it to industry standards. He will also look for the presence of asbestos in the attic.
Many home inspectors will only enter attics that have adequate access or are well insulated. This is because they can pose a health and safety risk to the inspector. In addition, they can lead to significant liability issues for the inspector. For example, if the inspector falls on a wire while inspecting an attic and is injured, he may be liable for his medical bills. Home inspectors must set policies on when they will or will not check attics to limit their liabilities. These policies should also be made known to their clients.
Home inspectors will check the roof for the number and type of shingles, any obvious damage, leaks, or rust, and the appropriate clearance between the siding and the ground (normally a minimum of 6 inches). They also look at the exterior wall-covering materials to determine their condition.
A damaged roof could allow moisture to penetrate the structure and cause problems that affect other areas of the house, such as drywall. Moisture in the drywall can result in mold and mildew, which are unsightly and can damage the insulation and structural components.
The exterior of a home is also inspected for windows and doors, which help keep the heat in during winter and the air out in summer. The inspector will check that the frames are solid, there is no rot or decay, and the caulking is in good condition.
Inspectors may only go onto roof areas if they think it’s safe for them to do so or might, in their opinion, cause damage. They also don’t inspect fences, outbuildings, swimming pools, security systems, or geological, geotechnical, hydrological, or soil conditions. They are also not required to operate or inspect screens, storm windows, shutters, awnings, eaves, or decorative lighting [source: InterNACHI]. The most common pitfalls that can derail a home inspection involve major problems such as asbestos and lead. These are usually outside the standard home inspection and require a separate specialist evaluation.
Home inspectors are responsible for assessing the condition of the interior and exterior of a property. This includes looking at various issues, from minor problems to significant issues that can be dangerous to health. To find a top-notch home inspector, ask about their credentials and experience. They should also be able to answer any questions that you may have about the inspection process.
During the home inspection, the inspector will look at several things, including electrical systems, structural integrity, plumbing, and more. They may also walk on the roof or go into crawl spaces if necessary. The inspector will then compile a report that will show any major issues that they find on the property.
While no house is perfect, a home inspection will help homebuyers understand the condition of a prospective purchase. This will give them a better understanding of the potential cost of ownership and allow them to make an informed decision about the property.
Home inspectors can perform ancillary services, such as wood-destroying insect inspections, radon testing, and septic tank inspections. They can also perform mold testing and private well inspections if properly trained. In addition, they must keep their license current by taking courses and attending seminars.