Starting out with your Home's Exterior

After introductions, your HomePro specialist will begin the inspection with the exterior. He will climb the roof when accessible and safe to determine the number of layers, approximate age and condition of roofing and flashing, as well as the life expectancy of the roof itself.

Other exterior areas examined and evaluated include:

• The siding
• Trim
  
• Gutters
  
• Chimneys
  
• Electrical
  
• Decks
  
• Site drainage
  
• Garage and door openers
  
• Foundation above grade
  
• Entrance cable (if above grade)
  
• Air conditioning unit
  
• Items like stoops, steps, walks, and driveways are checked for damage and surface problems that could prove hazardous.

The inspection continues in the Basement...

In the basement, many different household systems are inspected. Generally, the heating/air conditioning systems, main electrical panel, and water heater are located in the basement. Utility maintenance covers are removed in order to thoroughly inspect these 'big ticket' items. The size, approximate age, condition, and life expectancy of the Heating/Air Conditioning Systems and Water Heater are reported. The furnace's "Heat Exchanger" will be inspected with a mirror and high powered flashlight.

Maintenance, upgrades and repairs are recommended if needed. The Electrical System completely reviewed to ensure proper function, its materials are identified, and wire sizes are checked for safety.

While in the basement, the inspector will look for evidence of Water Seepage or Damage, or Structural Problems. The type of construction and foundation materials will be reported. The floor joists of the floor above will be surveyed for damage from water, wood boring insects, high moisture conditions, saw cuts and cracks. Crawl spaces will be entered when accessible.

The main water supply pipe will be located and its condition and material reported. The water supply and drain piping in the basement and crawl space is examined for leaks or corrosion. The laundry area will be inspected and equipment operated (if applicable) whether located in the basement or elsewhere.

Next, the Kitchen...

In the kitchen any appliances staying with the home are surveyed. The age of the appliance, condition, and life expectancy are reported. The inspector will look for the presence of GFI outlets (ground fault interrupter), a useful safety device used anywhere near water.

Water is run down the sink to check the flow and look for leaks or slow drains. The cabinet doors and drawers are checked to ensure proper operation.

While looking at the rest of the Interior, the inspector will:

• Inspect fireplaces
  
• Test electrical outlets
  
• Operate windows
  
• Look for water stains on walls and ceilings
  
• Report missing stair railings and look for potentially dangerous or toxic materials.
• Survey all bathroom fixtures and tile work (the functional flow of all supply and drain piping is checked).

The last stop is the Attic...

The inspector will enter the attic where physically possible. The condition of the roof rafters and sheathing is examined. The type and amount of insulation is reported and upgrades are recommended, if needed.  Attic ventilation is very important to the life of a roofing system.  Poor ventilation can cause a roof to prematurely age and roof sheathing to rot.  The inspector will be able to access the need for additional ventilation by visual clues he is trained to identify.