by Buyers believe a home inspector analyzes every inch of the home. The harsh reality is home inspectors survey every visible inch of the house. Inspectors rate the home’s condition based on what is evident. The inspector didn’t check for these items because it was too risky to examine or because the job required a specialized expert to resolve them.
Pests and Rodents
No home inspector will search for pest and rodent infestation in the home, inside the walls, or on the roof. It’s not part of their job description. An exterminator already exists for that purpose, so contact one for pest and rodent control.
Roofing
Roof checks depend on the height, the weather, the steepness, and the inspector’s willingness to climb a ladder. Some inspectors will examine the roof; some inspectors will eyeball damage from ground level. Generally, roofs over three stories tall, harsh weather, and very steep roofs are signs inspectors will not check the roof for damage and defects. Inspectors will not examine solar panels, antennas, and pests/rodents living inside roofs either. A roofing expert can inspect the roof in specific detail.
Fireplace/Chimney
Inspectors will not check a fireplace or chimney thoroughly either. It’s all about what is visible, and the inspectors will look inside chimneys with a flashlight and see if the fireplace doors will open and close properly. If you want a precise examination, a fireplace/chimney expert will assist you. These experts will check for soot buildup and the chimney’s structure when inspectors will not.
Carpeting
An inspector won’t tear up the carpet to inspect for problems, even if it looks extremely dirty or damaged. If you think that the appearance of your carpeting is a factor in selling your home, consult with a carpet cleaning professional. They can advise you whether you should remove, replace, or simply clean the carpet.
Septic System
Some home inspectors specialize in septic system checks, and if so, the inspectors will test the septic system to see if it’s operating normally. Inspectors will also check the tank, piping, and baffles along with leaks and its interior condition. The catch is a septic system check is a separate fee. The home inspectors who do not specialize in septic system checks will examine the pipes only. Those situations require a septic system expert to test the system thoroughly.
Swimming Pool and Spa
What inspectors will do with a swimming pool or spa is turn on the pool pump and heater to see if the pool or spa operates normally. Hire a professional pool inspector to search for dents and cracks in the pool or spa’s structure. The inspector will check the pump, heater, filter, safety cover, and decking surface for use. A pressure test to uncover plumbing leaks is also part of the pool inspector’s job.
It’s easy to believe the home inspector’s report wholeheartedly to make a home-buying decision. What you see is correct. What you shouldn’t do is believe home inspectors were thorough in the home’s visible and not visible areas. If these unchecked items are meaningful to you, hire a specialist to examine the task.
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