Inspection Checklist
Every home has problems, Understanding those problems can make the home.
~ Jason Heitz
HOME INSPECTIONS
WHAT TO EXPECT...
Utah Home & Commerical Inspections should be performed with maximum accuracy and competence. A professional Utah Home Inspector travels throughout the entire Property, as well as outside and around the Structure, inspecting every system and component of the Home or Business. As he or she inspects the systems and components of the Property, the inspector writes and presents their findings in a report.
A visual, non-invasive inspection of the various systems and components in the Property.
You should not expect your inspector to find everything wrong with the property or predict future conditions on what could go wrong.
We'll provide the homeowner or potential buyer with as much information as possible to help them make a quality decision about opportunities of the home.
Driveway & Paths
The home Inspection starts from the curb, we'll Inspect the driveways & paths for proper grading away from the house or to a approved and proper drains, we'll look for adequate surface drainage; retaining wall conditions that may affect the home structure or water run off. The potential dangers/damage associated with trees- such as root damage to driveways & walkways - varies with tree species and age, and requires an arborist evaluation.
Grounds & Drainage
We'll Inspect the grounds for proper grading away from the house, soil in contact with anything other than the foundation, vegetation in contact with or close to the structure that could damage it such as vines crawling up the siding or tree branches in contact with the house or roof.
Foundation & Structure
We inspect the foundation walls, including the view from interior unfinished basements and crawlspaces. We report observed indications of cracking, settling, and active water infiltration. We look for shrinkage cracks, settling cracks, cracks caused by root or back-fill damage, step cracks and how they affect floor level and interior door and window framing.
We inspect structural components such as rafters, trusses, joists, sub-flooring, and framing. We inspect and report on any observed cutting and notching of framing members that may, in the inspector’s opinion, present a structural compromise or safety concern.
Exterior
We inspect all utility meters and shutoffs for easy access. We inspect the siding, flashing, soffits, fascia, window frames, exterior doors, stairs/steps, and decks/balconies.
Roofing & Chimney
We walk on all roofs when it is safe and conditions permit. We inspect the condition of the roof coverings, the gutters,the downspouts, the vents, flashings, skylights, chimney and other roof penetrations. We inspect fireplaces and chimney conditions. We inspect the general structure of the roof from the readily accessible panels, doors, or stairs.
Attic & Ventilation
We inspect the attic for access, insulation, roof sheathing condition, electrical, roof penetrations, and structural members. We check for proper and adequate ventilation through soffits, gable, roof, and ridge vents. We report on the general absence or lack of insulation and ventilation in the attic.
Crawlspace
We inspect the crawlspace for access, insulation, vapor barrier, plumbing, duct work, ventilation, and electrical components. We comment on water infiltration, inadequate structural supports, and overall condition of the space.
Interior
We inspect the walls, ceiling, floors, windows, and doors. We inspect for handrails at steps, cabinets, counter tops, and other storage areas. We report on signs of water leaking into the house. We inspect the garage including firewalls, mechanical door openers, and safety devices.
Appliances
We operate and inspect appliances that are present and deemed permanently installed by the inspector. This includes stove, oven, built in microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, garbage disposal, and trash compactor. We report on overall condition and any defects, such as leaks, that are present. We also include our RecallChek to let you know which, if any, of your appliances have been recalled and how you can get them replaced at no cost.
Plumbing
We locate the main water shutoff. We inspect and run all accessible plumbing components such as water supply piping, manifolds, drain piping, sinks, drains, bath tubs, showers, and toilets; noting any leaks, low pressure, clogged drains, loose toilets, and supply piping that has a record of poor performance such as galvanized steel and polybutylene.
We point out any visible fuel storage systems and sump pumps. We also inspect plumbing that is gas related including piping, shutoffs, and gas valves.
Water Heater
We inspect the water heater enclosure, heating system, exhaust piping, strapping, and relief valve piping. We report on the age of the appliance and overall condition, making note of excessive wear and leaking.
Electrical
We inspect the electrical line coming into the house, the main disconnect, and determine the rating of the service amperage. We inspect panels, breakers and fuses, the service grounding and bonding, all switches, receptacles, light fixtures, AFCI/GFCI receptacles, and AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers.
We report on any receptacles in which power is not present, polarity is incorrect, or if the receptacle is not grounded, is not secured to the wall, the cover is not in place, the ground fault circuit interrupter devices are not properly installed or do not operate properly, or evidence of arcing or excessive heat is present. We report the absence of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Heating & Cooling
We inspect the the heating system and describe the energy source and heating method using normal operating controls and report as in need of repair furnaces which do not operate. We inspect the central cooling equipment using normal operating controls and report on cooling systems that do not function as intended. We inspect the visible distribution methods for deficiencies and visible venting methods for improper or deficient installations. We report on the age of the appliances and overall condition.
To see the full home inspection checklist, click here
What to expect from a home inspection. Utah Home Inspectors. Inspect a home. Top rated home inspection companies in Utah.