What should be on a residential property inspection checklist? Some of the most important items include water damage, mold, Radon, cracks in the window frames, and more. These issues can be challenging to identify, but you can rest assured that your inspector will spot them. Here are some other essential things to look for during the inspection:
Water
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) inspects wells and toilets, combustion air systems, water filters and softeners, and floor drains. In addition, they also test washing machines, lawn sprinkler systems, and other water-related systems. Also, the EPA’s water inspection helps determine the quality of water. A residential home inspection Northern Virginia also covers the health of water systems. It is a must before a buyer moves into a new home.
Private wells are common in remote and rural areas. Wells are an essential part of the plumbing system, but they also have some disadvantages. Getting a well inspection can give you insight into common hazards and keep your home an oasis. However, it’s best to consider the costs of the well inspection, which will depend on the water test and market conditions. If the inspection is part of another inspection, the price may be lower.
Radon
Radon testing is a significant component of a residential property inspection, and it’s an area that should be discussed with clients if possible. The EPA recommends placing the test device in the lowest level of the home, which may be a basement or living space without extensive renovation. It’s also best to put the test device in a room that will be used regularly, such as the living room or bedroom. Avoid testing radon in other areas of the house, including the kitchen, bathroom, or hallway. The buyer and seller should agree to the location of the test, and both should be aware of it.
The EPA recommends that homes be tested once every five years to test radon levels properly. This method is highly accurate and can quickly reveal high levels in a home. However, radon levels must be four pCi/L for an average test to be reliable. The testing device should also be kept inside the house for at least 48 hours to ensure accurate results.
Cracks near window frames
Cracks near window and door frames can be a sign that the structure of the building is not stable. They can occur in new construction or are caused by different stress points. In addition, cracks near window frames and doorways indicate that the drywall or framing lumber is not up to code. Do-it-yourself homeowners may not know what framing lumber is required for their projects, resulting in improperly framing lumber with excessive moisture content. This can lead to rotting timber lintels and the possibility of mold growth.
Several factors determine how serious the problem is when it comes to cracks near window and door frames. A crack near a door or window frame is most likely caused by improper taping, improper corner bead installation, or poor workmanship. While most cracks near door and window frames are not structural issues, they can occasionally be a warning sign of a bigger problem that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
Water damage
When buying a home, it’s imperative to consider the presence of water damage during your property inspection. You may be in the honeymoon phase and not even notice the problem until after you’ve moved in. However, water damage is likely old news if your house is dripping or you hear mysterious noises in the walls. And if the seller didn’t disclose it when they sold it, you’re probably in for a rude awakening.
Before you begin repairing water damage, it’s crucial to identify where the problem is coming from. One easy way to find the source is to determine what’s above the water damage. For example, if the water is coming from the roof, then it’s likely that bad weather has dislodged some of the shingles. In addition, if you notice water on the lower floors, there’s probably a leak somewhere above.
Infrared camera
Infrared cameras have many benefits. They are non-intrusive and can pick up on tiny details like electrical wires and insulation levels. They can also be used to detect air intrusion or blocked HVAC ducts. Using an IR camera can help you save your clients thousands of dollars on repair costs and protect their real estate investment. Investing in an infrared camera is smart, so invest in a high-resolution model.
Home inspectors will be able to detect electrical problems, and they can spot dangerous flue leaks, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Their reports will be comprehensive and easy to read and provide a point of reference for interpreting IR data. This is necessary when mapping repairs and improvements to a building. The camera also helps identify active nests hiding in the home.