Home inspections require payment for a professional to check out important home appliances and systems. The cost is well worth the money for potential homeowners. Qualified inspectors include members of professional trade and home inspector organizations.
The foundation of a home may be a basement, raised crawl space or a concrete slab. All require inspection for damages or improper installation. Foundations may also incorporate a drainage system, including a sump pump or French tile drain, and these should also be carefully inspected to ensure the drain operates correctly.
Electric wiring, even in new housing, should be inspected by a professional with electrical wiring experience. Potential dangers include old fuse systems and aluminum wiring problems.
Plumbing requires a plumber to look over the pipes in the home's baths, kitchen and laundry room. Any water outlets should also be inspected for damage or improper installation.
Check the county or city building permit department for any permits issued on the house. This can be done by anyone, but the permits issued for construction should be shown to the foundation inspector. Permits issued that involve wiring should be examined by the electrician and the plumber should look over work done on any pipes, sewer system or septic tank.
If the appliances are part of the sale, inspect each for damage and wear. The furnace and water heater are major expenses to repair or replace. Many power companies offer free or low-cost inspections of home heating and cooling systems. If not, hire a local professional to do the inspection.
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