What is a home inspection?
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is by its very definition a limited,visual inspection of the home by the home inspector. By limited visual inspection we mean a inspection of visually accessible areas of the home and limited in scope to the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors SOP. Here is a copy of the SOP.
Its important to read and understand the SOP your inspector is going to use to inspect your home by. I use the NACHI SOP because it currently is being used my most states as their governing SOP and because as a member of NACHI #1010110 for the past 10 yrs I know that NACHI holds its inspectors to the highest standards in the country.
NACHI SOP
The SOP defines the inspection as a visual inspection of the roof system, electrical system, HVAC system and plumbing system of a home plus all exterior and interior surfaces.
Systems
Roof System: The roof system inspection consists of a visual inspection of the exterior roof and protrusions. Shingles, flashings, facia, soffit, gutters, plumbing and other protrusions, and chimneys are part of the roof inspection. Additionally, the interior of the roof will be inspected if possible to include framing and decking.
Electrical system: The electrical system inspection consists of the main service panel to include mounting, placement, interior wiring and condition, home wiring, outlets, switches and fixtures.
HVAC: The HVAC system inspection is a inspection of the function of the HVAC in the home, operation, function, gas leak testing and ducting.
Plumbing: The plumbing system inspection will consist of of a visual inspection of the water heater, plumbing lines and pipes, look of visual leaks, P traps, waste plumbing, water pressure, water exhausting or leaving the home, exterior spigots and visual inspection of shut off valves.
Other: Exterior and Interior visual inspection of the home surfaces is the inspection of door, windows, siding, flashing, trim, grading, exterior cladding, floors, sub floors, ceilings and wall surfaces and more.
All in all its about 500 more or less inspection points.
Report
The inspection data will be gathered and put together in an easy to read inspection report. See a sample here.
The inspection report will consist of photos, IR photos, drone photos and videos all in an effort to show what if and defects were discovered in the home at the time of the inspection.
Conclusion
The home inspection is only as good as your inspectors experience, training and SOP will allow. When hiring a home inspector in the Kalamazoo area, ask questions and see if your inspector understands both what his and your responsibilities are. HomeSpec Certified Inspections, LLC is owned and run by a military vet who is also a Certified Master Inspector. With 10 yrs experience and thousands of inspection conducted HomeSpec can and will meet your strict inspection standards.
