These Items are inspected and Some Homes have Custom Items that are also inspected
- Structure – this involves the foundation and supporting elements of the house. All supports transfer loads back to foundation.
- Roof, vents, flashings, and trim – proper installation is very important to prevent water leaks
- Gutters and downspouts – proper drainage is paramount in ensuring water from your roof does not end up in your basement.
- Skylight, chimney and other roof penetrations – proper flashing, seals and caulking are inspected.
- Fireplace, damper door, hearth – WETT certified for insurance inspections
- Foundation – structural support and usually the first place where water will enter your home.
- Water penetration and foundation movement – effervescence or horizontal cracks are indications of both water and movement of structure.
- Decks, stoops, porches, walkways, and railings – inspect to ensure all required building code requirements have been met.
- Eaves, soffit and fascia – older homes may have rotted wood, peeling paint or openings which will allow rodent access.
- Grading and drainage – one of the most important factors in keeping your basement dry is ensuring proper grade around your home.
- Attic – renovations or adding cable TV can create problems in your insulation if not replaced after people enter attic for work.
- Insulation and ventilation – lack of insulation or poor ventilation can cause moisture problems and even mould.
- Heating system and air conditioning – If you have a Fresh Air Mix Box installed, is there a damper to close system when a/c is running?
- Ductwork and condensate lines – check for proper installation and drainage
- Main water shut off valves – identify location for homeowner
- Water heating system – check for leaks, corrosion and proper installation of PRV.
- Interior plumbing fixtures and faucets – Operate all fixtures and check for installation of shut of valves. (shut offs are not required by code except for toilet)
- Drainage sump pumps with accessible floats – Operate sump pumps, check for cover and proper discharge to exterior
- Electrical service line and meter box – Check installation of service, inspect mast or other service connections
- Main disconnect and service amperage – Inspect for service amperage as some panels may be under 100 amps required by insurance companies.
- Electrical panels, breakers, switches, outlets – Inspect for proper installation, supports, covers, polarity, connections, mechanical condition and type of wiring
- Grounding and bonding – Check grounding and bonding connections. If grounded to plumbing ensure main meter has jumper cable.
- GFCI’s and AFCI’s – operater and reset all GFCI and AFCI breakers and outlets
- Walls – Check for plumb, proper support if required, and finish.
- Floors – Installation of coverings, level, and squeaks or creaks when walked on.
- Ceilings – Inspect finish and look for any visible signs of moisture issues.
- Doors – Ensure proper operation and latching, finish, trim and installed plumb.
- Kitchen – Test all water fixtures, note all serial numbers, check cabinets and drawers.
- Windows – Operate all windows, check mechanisms, inspect screens and check for Thermal Leaks.
- Retaining Walls – Inspect for cracks or signs of movement. Check for rotting wood on wood beam walls.
- Fences & Gates – Operate gate and latches. Check fence for sagging or broken posts.
- Sidewalks & driveway – Check for cracks, pot holes, sinking, sidewalks to correct slope and trip hazards.
- Garage doors, safety sensors, and openers – Operate all doors and ensure safety sensors are in operation.
Preparing for Your Home Inspection
Free Thermal Imaging with Every Home Inspection
Engineered Products – Any engineered product, such as a roof truss cannot be modified without a designer or engineer first approving modification. This would prevent hanging storage compartments in garages etc without the appropriate approval.
Building Permits – If a basement has been renovated by home owner without obtaining proper permits, it means none of the plumbing, framing, heating or electrical installation was inspected prior to being covered by finish products. Although this is quite common, it could be an expensive repair if those inspections were required by Building Department.
Some issues found in past inspections which can give you an idea of the scope of deficiencies that are encountered:
Plumbing stack is not properly vented to exterior.
Moisture and sewer gas entering attic.
Electrical panel located in bathroom.
This is not permitted by the CEC.
HVAC – Furnace B vent was disconnected in attic.
Harmful Carbon Monoxide and CO2 gases entering attic.