We don’t have to tell you that buying a home is a HUGE investment. And whether it’s your first home, fifth home or investment property you want to make sure the house you buy is in the best possible condition before signing on the dotted line.
While a general home inspection is a typical part of the home buying process, it can be worthwhile to get speciality home inspections as well, especially if you’re buying an older home. Which ones should you consider and why? Read on to learn our top 10 recommended home inspections for any buyer to have peace of mind!
1) Roof inspection
Most general home inspections catch blatant roof problems with a simple visual inspection from the ground. However, a roof inspector will conduct a more thorough inspection that may reveal issues that aren’t visible to the untrained eye, including leaks and loose shingles and the condition of the gutters.
2) Chimney inspection
A chimney inspection find potential problems in the firebox or flue including buildup which could potentially cause chimney fires and/or smoke to seep inside the home when the fireplace is in use.
3) Electrical inspection
Whether you’re looking at new construction or an older home, making sure the wiring is up-to-date and complies with city codes can save a lot of headache down the road. By having your electrical systems inspected by a professional, you’ll ensure safety, comfort and energy efficiency for the long-run.
4) HVAC inspection
An HVAC inspection provides a clearer picture of the home’s heating and cooling system, and can even give you recommendations for repairs or energy-efficient upgrades. This is an important one to consider, as HVAC repairs –or especially replacement– can be extremely costly.
5) Mold inspection
Just because you can’t see any obvious signs of mold doesn’t mean there isn’t any, since mold burrows and grows beneath the surface. Another thing to keep in mind is that a mold problem can be a sign of bigger issues such as leaks and water damage.
6) Pest inspection
General inspections will do visual checks for areas of your home that might attracted termites, but a trained specialist will be more thorough. A special pest inspection can tell you if there are termites, carpenter ants, rodents in your home’s exterior AND interior, plus how large the infestation is. The biggest benefit to a pest inspection is you can have any problems remediated BEFORE moving in.
7) Lead-based paint inspection
Older homes built before 1978 – and even some after – could contain lead-based paint and are highly recommended to be tested by a trained professional. Even low levels of lead-based paint may cause health issues and can be especially hazardous if you’re buying a home with young children.
8) Plumbing inspection
A plumbing emergency is never convenient. To prevent issues like a sewer backup or a failing water heater from becoming a homeowner’s nightmare, investing in a plumbing inspection before making the down payment can bring underlying issues to light. A professional will either conduct a visual inspection or use a diagnostic camera to verify that fixtures and appliances are installed properly and check for signs of water damage under or behind appliances.
9) Septic inspection
Not all homes have a septic system but if you’re looking at a house that does, a proper in septic inspection is worth the investment. A trained professional will locate and assess the septic tank, sludge layer, and absorption area to ensure all components are in working order and that the tank is the right size for the home.
10) Asbestos inspection
If you’re buying a home that was built before 1975, there’s a chance asbestos may be present in one or more of its construction materials. An asbestos inspection should only be conducted by a certified asbestos removal company, like the professionals at C&C Unlimited.
BOTTOM LINE: SHOULD YOU GET SPECIALIZED INSPECTIONS?
Of course, extra inspections do require more time and money upfront. However, they also offer the huge benefit of peace of mind for the long-run. Homes are a big investment and addressing any issues before you move in will end up saving you time and money down the road!
If mold, lead or asbestos has been discovered in your residential or commercial property, reach out to us for a complimentary quote – you need a specialized contractor who has the experience and workforce to handle the job!
At C&C Unlimited, we pride ourselves on completing projects safely, on time, on budget and within scope.