What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection can uncover any potential issues with the property and provide you with valuable information about the condition of the home. This can help you make an informed decision about your purchase or sale and avoid any surprises down the line. 

 The inspector shall inspect:

• readily accessible and visible portions of the fireplaces and chimneys;
• lintels above the fireplace openings;
• damper doors by opening and closing them, if readily accessible and manually operable; and
• cleanout doors and frames.

The inspector shall describe:

• the type of fireplace.

The inspector shall report as in need of correction:

• evidence of joint separation, damage or deterioration of the hearth, hearth extension or chambers;
• manually operated dampers that did not open and close;
• the lack of a smoke detector in the same room as the fireplace;
• the lack of a carbon monoxide detector in the same room as the fireplace; and
• cleanouts not made of metal, pre-cast cement, or other non-combustible material.

A home inspection performed by an InterNACHI-certified inspector involves a comprehensive visual evaluation of the home's condition, including:

• Structural components (foundation, walls, roof)
• Exterior and interior condition
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing systems
• Heating and cooling systems
• Appliances
• Safety issues (like radon or carbon monoxide concerns)

InterNACHI-certified inspectors follow a strict code of ethics and are trained to provide thorough, unbiased, and professional inspections. The certification ensures they meet high standards and keep up-to-date with the latest industry practices.

After the inspection, the inspector provides a detailed report with their findings, which can be valuable to homebuyers, sellers, or owners looking to maintain their property.

A home inspection is meant to give a general overview of a property's condition, but there are some things that typically aren't included. Here are some of the key things that are excluded. 

Cosmetic Issues

A home inspection doesn't focus on cosmetic flaws like paint chips, minor scratches, or stains on carpets. These things don't affect the structure or safety of the home.

Pests and Rodents

While inspectors may note visible signs of pests (like termites or rodents), they generally aren't specialists in pest control. A separate pest inspection would be required for a detailed analysis.

Mold Testing

Although an inspector may identify visible mold or moisture issues, they typically don't conduct formal mold testing unless it’s part of a separate service. If mold is a concern, you would need a mold inspection.

Asbestos or Lead Testing

Unless the inspector specifically offers additional testing, they don't check for hazardous materials like asbestos or lead paint, which are common in older homes. These require specialized inspections.

Sewer Lines

Home inspectors don't typically evaluate the condition of sewer lines or septic systems, especially if they’re underground. A sewer scope/inspection can be scheduled separately for this with a professional offering these services.

Hidden or Inaccessible Areas

Any areas that are blocked off, sealed, or otherwise inaccessible (like behind walls or under flooring) aren't inspected. Similarly, attics or crawl spaces that are too cramped or hazardous to enter might not be fully inspected.

Outbuildings or Detached Structures

Unless specifically included, garages, sheds, or other detached structures might not be covered in the inspection

Roof Damage and Roof Coverings

If the roof is too high, steep, or unsafe to inspect, the inspector may not get a close look. They often rely on visual inspection from the ground or a ladder, which could miss certain issues.

Appliance Performance

Inspectors may check to see if major appliances (like the dishwasher or furnace) are functioning, but they don't perform deep diagnostic testing or maintenance. They’re looking for basic operation, not whether each appliance works perfectly.

Future/Upcoming Issues

Home inspections are a snapshot of the home’s current condition. They can’t predict future issues or address items that might deteriorate over time unless they’re currently visible or evident.

Homeowner's Personal Items

Inspectors won't inspect or move personal belongings, so any items hidden or blocked by furniture or other possessions may not be evaluated.

Environmental Concerns

Issues like soil contamination or environmental hazards aren't typically within the scope unless there’s a specific reason to look into them (e.g., if the area has a history of contamination). Special environmental assessments might be needed.

Repairs or Cost Estimates

Inspectors cannot provide cost estimates for repairs. They can point out potential issues but won’t tell you how much it will cost to fix them—that requires a contractor or specialist. 

If you're concerned about something specific (water, chimney, roof, indoor air quality, etc), specialty inspections can often be arranged in addition to the general home inspection.