What a home inspector cannot check
Buying a new home is an exciting venture! You've probably been saving for years, and now you're finally ready to take the plunge. However, before signing on the dotted line, there are a few things you need to know. One of the most critical steps in the home buying process is the home inspection. This process is where a professional inspector goes over the property carefully, looking for signs of damage or other potential problems. While a home inspector can identify many issues, there are some things that they cannot check. Here are a few things you should know before scheduling your home inspection.
1. Plumbing that is inside walls
When an inspector comes to check your new home, they will check the water flow in the faucets, toilets and showers. They will also look at the visible pipes beneath the sinks. However, they cannot check what is hidden inside the walls. So if there's a leak inside the wall, there's no way to know for sure until it becomes a significant problem.
2. Asbestos
Asbestos was commonly used in building construction until the late 1970s due to its heat-resistant properties. When inhaled, it can cause various respiratory diseases, including fatal lung cancer. Most home inspectors are not licensed to collect samples for testing. If you're worried your home may have asbestos, you'll need to call in a specialist to test for it.
3. Termites and pests
Home inspectors are not bug experts. Typically, they will spot a few pests if there is a significant infestation, but they may miss the extent of the pest damage. If you're concerned about termites, bedbugs or other pests, you can hire a specialist to check your home.
4. Swimming pool issues
Swimming pools can be costly to repair, which is why if a home has one, you want to make sure it's in good condition before buying it. However, a home inspector isn't an expert in swimming pools. They may look at the general condition of the pool and check if the filter and pump are in working order. If you're considering buying a home with a pool, it's best to have a professional swimming pool inspector check it out.
5. Mold
Mold can be a dangerous issue inside homes. The spores can cause respiratory problems and can even be deadly in severe cases. It's easy to miss visible mold, especially if it's hidden inside walls. A home inspector can identify visual mold, but they don't usually check for mold spores in the air. If you're concerned about mold, you may want to have a mold inspector test your home.
6. Radon
Radon is a natural gas that is dangerous to humans when inhaled. It's a radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer and can't be detected by smell or sight. It often seeps into the basement of your home from the ground, and the levels of this gas can only be measured through specialized tests. A home inspector does not have the necessary equipment to measure radon levels.
Conclusion
While a home inspector's report can give you a lot of information about a home, there are limitations to what they can do. By being aware of these limitations, you can make a more informed decision about buying a home. It's essential to hire professionals to inspect the home for specific concerns, such as mold, radon, pests or the swimming pool. By doing this, you'll be sure to protect your investment and save money in the long run by avoiding expensive repairs.