Wayne Peterson, of Integrity Home Inspections answers the question,
What is a Home Inspection... and do I need one?
A home inspection is a visual inspection of a home's operating systems and physical structure. Integrity Home Inspections visually checks to ensure that there are no big surprises when you are purchasing your new or used home.
A home inspection is not a warranty, or a guarantee. It is not an insurance policy, nor does it limit an insurance company's responsibility in a loss. A home inspector cannot see through walls, appliances, furniture or soil. A home inspection is a professional opinion of your home at the time it is inspected to help the homebuyer be more knowledgeable about potential costly repairs needed to your home.
So what do we look at during the inspection? The following is only a partial list of what we evaluate:
Exterior Components:
• Landscaping - its effects on the foundation.
• Foundation – if it is performing as intended in these shifting clay soils.
• Siding, trim, exterior windows and storms or screens - general condition of each.
• Roof, chimney, flashing, valleys - evidence of water penetration, materials, and condition.
• Gutters, downspouts - general condition, and its ability to carry off rainwater.
• Driveways, patios, decks, porches - general condition of each.
• Air conditioner compressor - general condition, and a check of temperatures at each duct register
Interior Components:
• Walls, floors, ceilings, windows - general conditions of each.
• Plumbing system - all visible fixtures, pipes and drains tested for operation.
• Electrical system - outside entrance wiring, service panel and visible wiring inspected. Testing of every available outlet and ground fault circuit interrupter.
• Appliances - operation of oven, microwave, dishwasher, disposal.
• Heating system - visible portion of heating plant and components, and a check of temperatures at each duct register.
• Attic - visible roof sheathing, ventilation, insulation and framing.
We will be on your roof and under your home. We will turn on every switch and open every door. We will turn on every faucet. We will be in the attic and open the electrical panel box. Our goal is that nothing will go unobserved because we want to provide you with the best service possible!
The FHA currently recommends homebuyers to get a home inspected before purchase. Appraisals are not home inspections. An appraisal is for the lender and it estimates the value of a house and to make sure the house has a fair market value for loan purposes. A home inspection is for the BUYER. It gives the buyer an impartial physical evaluation of the overall condition of the home and items that need to be repaired or replaced. It is your responsibility to become an informed buyer.
Quality and Dependability as solid as the name: Integrity Home Inspections
Call to schedule your inspection now! 214-564-4535
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