Stairways, handrails and guardrails must also be examined during a home inspection. (Photo: Shutterstock).
Rick Jacquemard, Flatirons Home Inspections
A critical eye should be used when inspecting the interior of a home. Whether you are buying your first house or are getting ready to put your house on the market, a home inspection can help pinpoint areas of concern. Be sure to enlist the services of a professional home inspector to thoroughly assess and report all issues prior to purchasing a home.
Walls, ceilings, doors, windows and floors should be inspected for any signs of damage or structural failure. Stairways, handrails and guardrails must also be examined. Countertops and cabinets should be inspected as well as all kitchen appliances including disposals and vent fans. Garage doors and openers are also inspected for condition and operation. Inspectors should also test all smoke and carbon monoxide detector/alarms.
The interior water supply and distribution systems, including fixtures, faucets and water heating equipment are an important part of any home inspection. Inspectors examine the drain, waste and vent systems related to plumbing as well as the water supply pipes in the home also indicating the location of the main water shut-off valve. The electrical system inspection should include grounding/bonding equipment, entrance conductors, and whether ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) outlets are installed in required areas. An inspection should also include installed lighting fixtures and switches.
A home’s central heating and cooling equipment, energy sources, connections and venting should be examined as well. Other stand-alone air-conditioning units or evaporative coolers will need to be inspected individually. Fireplaces, chimneys, fireboxes and dampers should also be included in an interior inspection. Ask questions your inspector if any of these items have been omitted from your inspection report or if you are unsure about their condition. You should also question any areas of the report you are unsure of or do not understand fully.
Inspections often do not include cosmetic issues that may be found during an inspection. These may include but are not limited to; paint, wallpaper or other finish treatments, window treatments or floor coverings. Items such as central vacuum systems and recreational facilities may also not be included. Specialized appliance features such as self-cleaning ovens, programmable thermostats as well as confirmation of the operation of every control and feature of an inspected appliance may not be included. Your inspector may include such items for and additional fee upon request.
For more information on home inspections contact Rick Jacquemard, at 720.280.3544, e-mail [email protected] or visit flatironshi.com.
