From Roof to Basement: What Your Home Inspector Sees That You Don’t

Ever wondered what a home inspector really does? Behind the scenes of every home inspection is a trained professional who is not only checking the structural integrity of a house, but also ensuring your future home is safe, sound, and free of hidden dangers. From inspecting the roof to testing for Radon, a home inspector wears many hats—and your peace of mind is at the top of the list. Let’s take a step inside my world as a home inspector and explore how this essential service can save you time, money, and even your health.

Pre-Inspection

Before I step onto the property, the inspection process begins. I research the property’s age, location, and size to prepare for a thorough evaluation. I also review the services requested to ensure I have the necessary tools and testing equipment on hand.

Note to clients: Be sure to sign the inspection agreement before your scheduled appointment to avoid delays.

As I approach the property, I survey the neighborhood to gauge its character. In newer, well-maintained areas, I may expect fewer defects, while older neighborhoods might indicate construction completed under outdated code standards.

On-site Inspection

Upon arrival, I start by turning on all faucets and lights in the home while checking ceilings for signs of leaks or moisture intrusion. Adjusting the thermostat now allows me to evaluate the HVAC system later. Turning on water simulates typical household usage, helping reveal hidden plumbing issues, while checking lights ensures electrical functionality.

Exterior Inspection

I begin with a wide view of the home’s exterior before zooming in on specific sections. Starting at one corner, I circle the home at least twice in different directions to capture different perspectives and document any visible issues. This is when I start to take the nearly five hundred photos that capture the condition of the home for use in the inspection report.

During this phase, I look for structural cracks, roof drainage problems, and operational issues with electrical outlets and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). I also inspect the HVAC system while I’m outside.

Interior Inspection

Moving inside, I work top-down—from the attic to the basement. In the attic, I check for structural damage, ventilation problems, insulation quality, and moisture issues. After the attic, I move down to the next level, completing each level before moving down to the next.

On each level of the house, I examine ceilings, walls, and floors for visible damage. In bedrooms, I ensure proper egress and test window functionality. Bathrooms are evaluated for plumbing flow and drainage, water temperature, ventilation, and GFCI functionality.

I also inspect critical systems, including the water heater, HVAC, and electrical panel. If the property has a garage, I test the vehicle door for proper and safe operation. For crawl spaces or unfinished basements, I look for vapor barriers, plumbing leaks, and structural issues.

Roof Inspection

Next, I inspect the roof usually from top of a ladder and by drone to assess its condition.  I am looking for roof covering deficiencies, flashing issues, overgrown vegetation, chimney issues and external penetration.

Kitchen Inspection

I conclude the inspection in the kitchen by testing built-in appliances, plumbing flow, ventilation, and GFCI outlets. I also note the styles and materials used in the home, providing useful information for future reference.

After confirming everything is in its original state, I lock up and move on to generating the final report. Using photos and notes from the inspection, I create an easy-to-read document with detailed explanations and actionable recommendations.

 Beyond the Basics: Additional Services That Matter

Beyond standard inspections, I may recommend additional services depending on the property’s characteristics. For example:

• Radon Testing: Recommended for homes over 50 years old with basements or homes located in high-risk areas.
• Mold Testing: Essential if there’s evidence of past moisture issues (e.g., washer overflow) or suspected mold growth.
• Wood-Destroying Insect Reports (WDIR): Crucial for detecting termites, a leading cause of structural damage in wood.
• Water Testing: Necessary for homes with well systems to ensure safe drinking water.

 Saving You Time and Money

At Q&A Home Inspections, LLC, we simplify the process by coordinating all aspects of the inspection, including property access. We offer flexible scheduling and rapid report delivery.

As a certified professional inspector licensed in North Carolina, I have the expertise to tell the story of the property. My comprehensive reports empower buyers to negotiate repairs or price adjustments, saving money on costly repairs down the line. Both buyers and sellers gain peace of mind, knowing the home’s condition before finalizing a transaction.

Since 2019, Q&A Home Inspections, LLC has built a reputation for outstanding customer service and meticulous attention to detail, earning the trust of our clients and their realtors. These qualities have rewarded us with repeat customers and invaluable referrals.

Conclusion

At Q&A Home Inspections, LLC, we take pride in helping you make informed decisions about one of the biggest investments of your life. With a thorough inspection and a detailed report, you’ll gain the confidence to move forward with your purchase or prepare your home for sale. Ready to book your inspection? Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is in expert hands. Let us help you uncover the full story of your property!