Basics of Home Inspection by the Alliston Home Inspector
Understanding the Basics of Home Inspection is important because It is rare that anyone buys a home without a home inspection. A professional home inspection can identify the overall condition of the home, thereby preventing expensive problems or surprises. There is not such thing as a Perfect Home and your Home Inspector will ensure you know what conditions exist prior to purchasing. There are some homes that are ” Money Pits” just waiting for an unsuspecting buyer. 
Basics of home inspection covers the following areas:
- Exterior – Drainage conditions, exterior surfaces, decks and chimneys.
- Roof – Condition of roofing materials and flashing.
- Interior – Windows, doors and plumbing fixtures are tested and checked for operation. The furnace and air conditioner are examined for correct installation and operation. Electrical outlets and switches are randomly checked for correct polarity and operation.
- Crawl Space/Attic – These areas are examined for structural condition. Insulation, ventilation, electrical, heating and plumbing systems are inspected if accessible.
When Do You Call a Home Inspector
- When a home buyer wants to learn about the condition of home they are intending to purchase.
- Seller wants to identify items that may affect the sale of home. Pre-Listing Inspection
- Purchaser wants to monitor progress and workmanship on a custom new home being built.
- Tarion Warranty Inspections.
Read Detailed List of Inspection Types
Home Inspector Qualifications
Some important factors to consider during your search for a Home Inspector
- Qualifications, Certifications and Training
- Knowledge of Building Codes
- Years of Inspection Experience ( some home inspectors lump in every job they have had as experience )
- Referrals and References.
- Related Work Experience.
Your Own Home Inspection Check List Should Include these items:
- Attic
Proper ventilation, sufficient insulation, no signs of leaking or water damage
Solid foundation, walls and floors; no signs of water damage; sufficient insulation
- Bathrooms
Working exhaust fan; adequate flow and pressure of fixtures; functioning toilet, sink, bathtub and shower
- Ceilings
Straight and level, no stains or cracks
- Doors and wood trim
Secure frames and trim pieces; no cracks, rot or decay
- Electrical systems
Up-to-code circuit breakers and grounding, working exhaust fans and light fixtures, functional outlets; working smoke detectors
- Exterior surfaces
No damage to siding, no loose or damaged stucco, no peeling paint
- Garage
Solid foundation; functional garage opener; up-to-code electrical system and outlets; no damage to ceiling, framing, walls or floors
- HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning)
No furnace or air-conditioning malfunctions, working water heater, no damage to chimney or fireplace
- Kitchen/appliances
Functional appliances (stove, dishwasher, fridge, microwave, washer and dryer), sufficient insulation
- Plumbing
No damaged or leaking pipes; proper hot water temperature; functional sinks, toilets, showers and bathtubs
- Roof
No damaged or loose shingles, no chimney damage, functional gutters, clear vents
- Structure
No roof leaks, no cracks in ceilings or walls, secure foundation
- Windows
No damage, proper alignment, drip caps installed, use of storm windows or thermal glass, caulked frame joints
- Yard and landscaping
Water management and proper drainage
Barrie Home Inspections provides professional home inspections to Barrie and Local area. Read about Items Inspected with a Detailed description. Choosing the Type of Home Inspection is made easier with our comprehensive Type of Inspection page.
Read about Common Home Inspection Defects
Read more about Why You Should have a Home Inspection
Read the Alliston Home Inspector’s Standard of Practice
For detailed information about WETT Inspections or installation guides visit Alliston WETT Inspector