Since 1988, True-chek has been offering in-depth services to assist you in buying the right nome. The home inspections will vary depending on the type of property you are purchasing. A large historic home, for example, will require a more specialized inspection than a small condominium. However, the following are the basic elements that will be checked:
Structure: A home’s skeleton impacts how the property stands up to weather, gravity, and the earth. Structural components, including the foundation and the framing, will be inspected.
Exterior: The inspector will look at sidewalks, driveways, steps, windows, and doors. A home’s siding, trim, and surface drainage also are part of an exterior inspection.
- Doors and windows
- Siding (brick, stone, stucco, vinyl, wood, etc.)
- Driveways/sidewalks
- Attached porches, decks, and balconies
Roofing: A well-maintained roof protects you from rain, snow, and other forces of nature. The inspector will note of the roof’s age, conditions of flashing, roof draining systems, buckled shingles, loose gutters and downspouts, skylight, and chimneys.
Plumbing: Thoroughly examine the water supply and drainage systems, water heating equipment, and fuel storage systems. Drainage pumps and sump pumps also fall under this category. Poor water pressure, banging pipes, or corrosion can indicate problems.
Electrical: Safe electrical wiring is essential. Look for the condition of service entrance wires, service panels, breakers and fuses, and disconnects.
Heating: The home’s heating system, vent system, flues, and chimneys should be inspected. Look for age of furnace and water heater, whether the size is adequate for the house and speed of recovery.
Air Conditioning: The inspector will describe your home cooling system, its energy source, and inspect the central and through-wall cooling equipment, as well as consider the age of the system.
Interiors: The inspection of the inside of the home can reveal plumbing leaks, rot, construction defects, and other issues. The inspector will take a close look at:
- Walls, ceilings and floors
- Steps, stairways, and railings
- Countertops and cabinets
- Garage doors and garage door systems
Ventilation/insulation: To prevent energy loss, check for adequate insulation and ventilation in the attic and in unfinished areas such as crawlspaces. Also look for proper, secured insulation in walls. Insulation should be appropriate for the climate. Excess moisture in the home can lead to mold and water damage.
Fireplaces: The inspector will examine visual components of the system, including the vent and flue, and describe solid fuel burning appliances.
Radon Testing: Radon is a carcinogenic gas that is hazardous to inhale. Build-up of radon in homes is a health concern and many lung cancer cases are attributed to radon exposure each year. EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon. Any home, whether it is new, old, well sealed or drafty, with or without a basement, can have a radon problem. The only way to find this out is with Radon Testing.
Wood Destroying Insect Testing: The inspector will connect you with an evaluation of the home’s exterior, identify any signs of termite activity as well as conditions conducive to termites or other infestations.
True-chek Home Inspection Service, Inc. 