Home Inspections

Inspections help you understand the overall condition of a property. They save considerable time in the buying process, ensure a smart purchase decision, and protect your investment. Inspections could save you thousands of dollars in unanticipated repairs.

This table provides information on common inspection types. Other inspections may be necessary for the home you are considering. Be sure to discuss inspection requirements and recommendations with your sales professional before making an offer on a home.

Standard Home Inspection

Covers lot and grounds, roofs, exterior surfaces, garage or carport, structure, attic, basement, crawl space, electrical, heating and air-conditioning systems, plumbing, fireplace or wood-burning devices, and appliance condition.

Asbestos

Analysis in a lab detects the presence and condition of asbestos fibers. If asbestos is found, buyers should seek professional assistance.

Composition Board Siding

Some siding is susceptible to water penetration, which may cause premature deterioration and rotting. This inspection evaluates the condition of the siding and any areas of high moisture.

Lead Paint

Painted surfaces in homes constructed before 1978 should be assessed for the presence of lead-based paint. Lead exposure can be very harmful to you and your family.

On-Site Waste System Evaluation - SeptiChek™

Examines the fluid level inside the septic tank. The tank is pumped to check its condition, and subsurface liquid waste (effluent) levels are detected as well. SeptiChek provides more reliable information on potential problems than a septic dye test. It can alert the buyer to a range of costly repairs or failures.

Private Well Flow and Portability

Determines whether a private well adequately supplies water to the home. Samples are sent to a lab for potability (drinkability) analysis.

Pool/Hot Tub Inspection

Determines the overall condition and operability of the pool and/or hot tub's equipment. The pool deck also is inspected for deterioration and other noticeable defects.

Radon

Detects and measures radon levels. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year result from radon in indoor air. They recommend all homes be tested for radon. The EPA recommends that homes containing 4.0 or more Pico curies per liter be fixed.

Stucco Siding

Evaluates the application of traditional or synthetic stucco siding to determine whether it was according to manufacturer specifications. Checks for moisture that may cause hidden structural damage. Synthetic stucco, commonly referred to as Exterior Insulated Finish System (EIFS), is predominately found in the Southeast. However, it can be present in homes in other areas of the country.

Termite

Examines the property for the presence of wood-destroying insects and wood-destroying organisms, such as fungus. Termite inspections also may reveal conditions that are conducive to such insects and organisms.

Underground Storage Tank (UST)

Inspects for corrosion and damage that could allow hazardous materials to escape into the soil and potentially contaminate drinking water. The vacuum test method involves sealing off the tank to create a vacuum. Periodic readings indicate if the tank is losing its vacuum. Results can be provided to the buyer immediately. A second common method is a soil test. Random core samples from the tank vicinity are analyzed in a lab for the presence of contamination. The majority of UST problems occur in the Northeastern states due to the older properties located there.