Category: Home Inspection Services

What Are The Definitions Used For A Home Inspection?

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

Our Sample Home Inspection Report contains the status of inspected areas and systems. Each area or system has a dedicated chapter in the report. These areas/systems include; Grounds, Exterior, Roof, Attic, Kitchen, Bathroom, Laundry Room, Bedroom, Interior, Fireplace/Wood Stove, Heating System, Crawl Space, Plumbing, Basement, Garage, Structure, and Electrical. We use ten primary definitions for the status of an inspected area or inspected system.

10 Condition Definitions in a Home Inspection Report

Serviceable: Functional with no obvious signs of defect. The item is capable of being used.

Maintenance Repair: This condition warrants additional attention and Maintenance repairs.

Fair Condition: Item is functional but in the upper range of typical service life for this component. May require repair or replacement at any time.

Poor Condition: The general maintenance and upkeep on this component is poor. Recommend further evaluation and repairs by a qualified contractor, familiar with this system. Recommend budget considerations for repair/ replacement.

Not Present: Item not present or not found.

Not Inspected: Item was unable to be inspected for safety reasons or due to lack of power, inaccessible, or disconnected at time of inspection.

Defective Item: needs immediate repair or replacement. It is unable to perform its intended function.

Safety Hazard: Correction of this condition is needed.

Safety Upgrade: Upgrades are recommended for safety enhancement. This building may have been built before the era of current standards.

Structural Geotech: Condition needs further review by a qualified structural engineer/geotechnical engineer.

Some Inspected Items Fall Into Multiple Definitions

In our sample home inspection report, some items or areas use multiple definitions to describe the condition. Take page 7 in the Grounds report we mention wooden stairs that fall into three definition categories; Maintenance Repair, fair Condition and Safety Hazard with an image included (see below).

This would mean that the condition of these stairs warrants additional attention and maintenance repairs, while it is still functional, it is in the upper range of typical service life for this component and is a current safety hazard, and correction of this condition is needed.

Recommendations, Too!

Our Home inspection reports do not only provide the condition of each area and system but often come with recommendations as well. Using the example above you can find this additional information and recommendation:

Rise and run on steps create a trip hazard. Worn finish. Earth to wood contact. Recommend monitoring for moisture damage.

Click to read one of our sample home inspection reports. It is a great way to preview the results you can expect from our Home Inspection services.

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

At Check It Out Home Inspection Services, we offer all the home inspection services you would expect, for example electrical, plumbing, roof, structure, interior, exterior, garage, and grounds, etc. (Go to the Check it Out Home Inspection homepage for a full list of home inspection services). We also offer One-Stop Shopping Home Inspection Services so you can schedule sewer scoping, radon testing, and oil tank searches 24/7 with a single click or call.

Check It Out Home Inspection provides service to the Greater Portland and Vancouver areas.

Home Inspection Services Portland Home Inspection

Do Home Inspectors Check For Mold?

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

Mold is not within the scope of a typical home inspection. A home inspection will determine risks of moisture which is conducive to mold. Mold thrives in warm, damp, humid conditions. Home inspectors are looking for moisture intrusion. Keeping gutters clean and well-drained are crucial to keeping basements and crawl spaces dry. A home inspector will also look at ventilation in the attic, crawl space, kitchen, bathroom, basement, and heating systems which can also impact mold growth.

Is Mold a Health Hazard?

We recommend the EPA report on Mold Moisture and Your Home. The report states that molds are usually not a problem indoors and clean up should be with soap and water. The dangers of mold have been sensationalized due to the rare instances of toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum). Black mold spores, if ingested or inhaled, can cause a range of unpleasant and even dangerous symptoms in humans. Otherwise, depending on the sensitivity of the individual, molds can produce allergens. Allergic responses include similar symptoms an individual would experience for hay fever; asthma, red eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is not enough to simply kill the mold, it must also be removed.

How to Prevent Mold in the Home

Preventing moisture intrusion is the key to preventing mold. Again, according to the EPA Moisture and Mold Prevention and Control Tips, here are some recommendations for preventing mold in your home.

Clean up after water leaks and spills immediately.
Clean and repair gutters regularly.
The ground around a house should slope away from the foundation.
Use bathroom and kitchen ventilation fans and make sure those fans vent to the exterior.
Make sure the crawl space has a good vapor barrier and good ventilation.
Run a dehumidifier in the basement, especially in older homes.

Should I Also Hire a Mold Inspector?

According to the EPA and Mold experts, If you see mold, you do not need a mold inspector. You can go straight to remediation. Proper testing for mold requires carefully controlled conditions that can only happen in a lab. Other complications include the difficulty of only testing the indoor air. This means the test will also include mold species that may be primarily outside your home.

Home Inspectors Check for Moisture

While home inspectors do not inspect specifically for mold, they do check for moisture and make recommendations to reduce humidity. In our sample home inspection report we mention moisture 38 times and make several recommendations to reduce humidity. Moisture and humidity are the largest factors that are conducive to mold.

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

Check It Out Home Inspection provides service to the Greater Portland and Vancouver areas.

Home Inspection Services Home Inspector Portland Home Inspection What is Home Inspection

Can My House Fail A Home Inspection?

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

Can a Home Pass/Fail an Inspection?

The short answer is no. Home inspections are not based on a pass or fail evaluation.

Think of it as a physical exam for your home. You can’t fail a physical exam—even if you are not as healthy as you should be. The purpose of a home inspection is to determine the current condition of your home.

A home inspection is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector is hired to describe a home’s physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need maintenance or major repair/ replacement. A home inspector will also identify health and safety issues.

What Does a Home Inspector Inspect?

A home inspector checks areas, components, and systems. Areas of inspection include Grounds, Exterior, Attic, Kitchen, Interior, Crawl Space, Basement, and Garage. Mechanical systems inspected include Electrical, Heating, Structure, and Plumbing.

How Does a Home Inspector Evaluate?

A home inspection is a visual, noninvasive examination. Items can be determined between a spectrum of being serviceable, fair, poor or defective. Serviceable means it is functional with no obvious signs of defect. Fair condition means it is functional but has some signs of age/use. Defective means the item needs immediate repair or replacement. Items can also be described as not present or not inspected. Usually, uninspected items are due to safety reasons or due to lack of power, are inaccessible, or disconnected at the time of inspection.

What Does a Home Inspection Report Look Like?

Click to see a sample home inspection report. A home inspection report is a very detailed report on the condition of the entire home. While each report style may differ from inspector to inspector, they will all document the day, time, address, people present, and weather conditions. The bulk of the report goes through each of the areas and systems providing photos and text to describe conditions found.

How Do I Find a Home Inspector?

Most Home Inspectors are recommended by your real estate agent. Your agent may also provide you with a few suggestions to pick from. It is in the best interest of all parties involved to get a neutral home inspection. Again, a home inspection is not about pass or fail. It is about identifying the current condition of the home and identify any issues before the purchase of a home.

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

Check It Out Home Inspection provides service to the Greater Portland and Vancouver areas.

Home Inspection Checklist Home Inspection Services Portland Home Inspection

Preparing For A Home Inspection: A Checklist

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

Home inspections are impartial and neutral. All states have what is called ‘Standards of Practice’ for home inspectors. As a Home Inspector who is licensed in two states, I adhere to the Standards of Practice in Oregon and the Standards of Practice in Washington. I am also a Certified Home Inspector by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). ASHI sets high standards for the home inspection industry.

The following checklist can help your home inspection go smoothly, from communications to preparing areas for access. Knowing what to expect will help you get the best possible home inspection experience.

COMMUNICATIONS

Notify the real estate agent.
Notify the seller.
Read, sign and send your pre-inspection agreement this will give you an understanding of the scope of the inspection.
You are encouraged to be there during the inspection (I book 4 hours for inspections).
Be prepared to be there at the end of the inspection for the review (the last half hour of the inspection).
Be prepared to pay at the time of inspection with cash, check or credit card (2.75% fee for credit cards). Your report will not be released without payment.

PROVIDING ACCESS

Provide access to the exterior, decks, patios, garage. Trees, bushes, trash cans, debris or other objects can prevent a home inspector from seeing all of the exteriors. I will need access to the roof, and the ability to inspect gutters, siding, trim, the outside of doors and windows.
Provide access to all rooms inside and areas including basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Especially closets that provide access to attics and crawl spaces.
Keep pets kenneled or boarded elsewhere temporarily until after the inspection.

KEEP SYSTEMS ON

Make sure gas, water, and electricity are all turned on.

BONUS ITEMS

Working light bulbs in all fixtures
A well-labeled electrical panel

Home Inspection Checklist for Real Estate Agents

We have a home inspection checklist for real estate agents too. Use this checklist to make sure your client gets the best possible home inspection.

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

At Check It Out Home Inspection Services, we offer all the home inspection services you would expect. For example electrical, plumbing, roof, structure, interior, exterior, garage, and grounds, etc. (Go to the Check it Out Home Inspection homepage for a full list of home inspection services). We also offer One-Stop Shopping Home Inspection Services so you can schedule sewer scoping, radon testing, and oil tank searches 24/7 with a single click or call.

Check It Out Home Inspection provides service to the Greater Portland and Vancouver areas.

Home Appraisal Home Inspection Report Home Inspection Services Home Inspector Portland Home Inspection

Home Inspection vs. Home Appraisal

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

To the first-time homebuyer, these may sound like similar services, but they are quite different. The main difference between home inspection vs. home appraisal is that a home inspection describes the condition of the home while an appraisal describes the value of the real estate.

The Home Inspection Process

A home inspection is a visual, noninvasive examination of the condition of a home. During the inspection, all of the items typically used within a home are tested and/or operated to verify proper operation or installation. When a home inspector visits a home, they usually have a checklist that includes areas and systems to inspect. The areas on a home inspector’s checklist include Grounds, Exterior, Roof, Attic, Kitchen, Bathroom, Laundry Room, Bedroom, Interior, Fireplace/Wood Stove, Crawl Space, Basement, Garage, and Structure. The home inspection checklist also includes an examination of systems; Electrical, Heating and, Plumbing.

Click to see a sample home inspection report.

A home inspection is usually for a home buyer and recommended by a real estate agent, although there are home inspections for home sellers too. There are those that want a home inspection for peace of mind these are called maintenance home inspections.

The Home Appraisal Process

To a certain degree, a home appraiser evaluates the condition of a home, but not as thorough or as complete. The primary job of an appraiser is to determine the value of the entire real estate. An appraiser will gather information such as the property’s square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms. The final report will include comparable sales, statistics on current real estate market trends, and other information that went into calculating value.

In most home sales the appraiser is paid for by the buyer and usually required by the financial lender.

How Are They the Same?

Both services are performed before the sale of a home. Most importantly both services are impartial. Neither professional is paid based on a commission or sale of the home. Inspectors and appraisers have a high set of practices and standards towards certification. Finally, the real estate industry depends on unbiased property valuation from your appraiser and a neutral home inspection report from your inspector.

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

Home Inspection Services Home Inspector HVAC Portland Home Inspection

Schedule A Portland Home Inspection 24/7

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

A home inspection is a visual, noninvasive process where all of the items typically used within a home are tested and/or operated to verify proper operation or installation. Systems included are electrical, plumbing, roof, structure, interior, exterior, HVAC, some appliances and grounds.

What’s Included In The Home Inspection For Each System?

Electrical

Home Inspection for Electrical Systems includes but may not be limited to checking for problems with bus or grounding. Assess wiring for general condition, signs of arcing, grounding, and proper use of ground-fault protection systems. Interior and exterior outlets are tested for proper grounding and polarity.

Plumbing

Home Inspection for Plumbing Systems includes but may not be limited to checking signs of leakage from supply lines and drains. Assess plumbing fixtures such as faucets, showers, and toilets to ensure they function properly. Confirm water heater operates and is properly installed.

Roof

Home Inspection for the Roof includes but may not be limited to inspecting shingles and flashing for proper installation and signs of failure or possible leakage. Inspect skylights, vents, and other penetrations. Confirm safe clearances to trees and utility services lines.

Structure

Home Inspection for Structure includes but may not be limited to inspecting visible framing in home, garage, and outbuildings, including roof, basement, and crawlspace. Look for signs of settling or foundation failure. Look for signs of penetrations, leakage, mold, or infiltration by insects or rodents.

Interior

Home Inspection for Interior includes but may not be limited to inspecting the condition of floors, ceilings, and walls for deterioration, safety, and function. Confirm stairway and railing safety. Confirm windows and doors are in good working order, and that openings conform to safety standards.

Exterior

Home Inspection for Exterior includes but may not be limited to inspecting siding, eaves, soffits, fascia, and trim for signs of rot or other deterioration. Confirm gutters, downspouts, and other drainage systems, including sump pumps, are working properly. Inspect decks, patios, porches, and walkways for structural soundness and safety.

HVAC

Home Inspection for HVAC Systems includes but may not be limited to testing heating and cooling equipment, including furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and gas fireplaces. Look for proper venting and handling of condensate.

Appliances

Home Inspection for Appliances includes the inspection on a pass/fail basis for built-in appliances like the kitchen range, refrigerator, dishwasher, and food waste disposal. Washers and dryers are not tested.

The Grounds

Home Inspection for the Grounds includes but may not be limited to the inspection of walkways, railings, driveways, steps, and patios for safety issues, drainage issues, and signs of cracking, settling, or other failures.

About Check It Out Home Inspections

I started Check It Out Home Inspection to apply my 15 years of carpentry experience to home inspections. I worked in both new construction and remodeling, so I know houses inside and out — framing, foundations, plumbing, electrical, windows & doors, HVAC, you name it. I am proud to serve the entire Portland metropolitan area as well as the southwestern Washington/Vancouver area.

You can schedule with us 24/7 with a click or a call below.

Certification Home Inspection Report Home Inspection Services Home Inspector Portland Home Inspection

What Are The Contract And Report Standards For Oregon Home Inspectors?

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

Check It Out Home Inspection Is Licensed In Oregon and Washington

Check it Out Home Inspection is licensed in two states; Oregon and Washington. We are located in Portland, Oregon and provide home inspections in the Greater Portland area and SW Washington. As an Oregon Licensed Home Inspector, we are required to apply for our certification through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB).

This is the state board that defines the Standards of Practice for Oregon Home Inspectors. The rules they have established are archived in the Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Database. OAR is an official compilation of rules and regulations having the force of law in the State of Oregon. The rules set by the Construction Contractor Board are in Chapter 812. OAR 812-008-0202 through 812-008-0214 are the set of rules which set forth the minimum standards of practice required by Oregon certified home inspectors.

Home Inspector Standards of Practice: Contracts and Reports

Below is a copy of OAR 812-008-0202 Contracts and Reports and establishes a standard of practice for all Oregon home inspectors.

(1) Home inspections undertaken according to Division 8 shall be based solely on the property conditions, as observed at the time of the home inspection.

(2) Oregon certified home inspectors shall:

(a) Provide a written inspection contract, signed by both the Oregon certified home inspector and client, prior to completing a home inspection that shall:

(A) State that the home inspection is in accordance with standards and practices set forth in division 8 of OAR chapter 812;

(B) Describe the services provided and their cost;

(C) State where the planned inspection differs from the standard home inspection categories as set forth in OAR 812-008-0205 through 812-008-0214; and

(D) Conspicuously state whether the home inspection includes a wood-destroying organism inspection and if such inspection is available for a fee.

(E) For the purpose of this rule, a home inspection shall be deemed completed when the initial written inspection report is delivered.

(b) Observe readily visible and accessible installed systems and components listed as part of a home inspection as defined by these rules unless excluded pursuant to these rules in OAR 812-008-0200 through 812-008-0214; and

(A) Describe those systems and components as set forth in OAR 812-008-0205 through 812-008-0214;

(B) Record in the report each item listed in OAR 812-008-0205 through 812-008-0214 and indicate whether or not the property inspected was satisfactory with regard to each item of inspection; it will not be sufficient to satisfy subsection (2)(c) of this rule that the certified home inspector prepare a report listing only deficiencies;

(C) State whether any inspected systems or components do not function as intended, allowing for normal wear and tear; and how, if at all, the habitability of the dwelling is affected;

(D) State the inspector’s recommendation to monitor, evaluate, repair, replace or other appropriate action;

(E) State the Construction Contractors Board license number of the business and the name, certification number, and signature of the person undertaking the inspection; and

(F) Include on the first page of the contract and on the first page of the report, in bold-faced, capitalized type and in at least 12 point font, the following statement:

“THIS REPORT IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF THE PERSON PURCHASING THE HOME INSPECTION SERVICES. NO OTHER PERSON, INCLUDING A PURCHASER OF THE INSPECTED PROPERTY WHO DID NOT PURCHASE THE HOME INSPECTION SERVICES, MAY RELY UPON ANY REPRESENTATION MADE IN THE REPORT.”

(d) Submit to each customer, at the time the contract is signed, a copy of “Home Inspection Consumer Notice.”

(3) Division 8 does not limit Oregon certified home inspectors from reporting observations and conditions or rendering opinions of items in addition to those required in Division 8.

(4) All written reports, bids, contracts, and an individual’s business cards shall include the Oregon certified home inspector’s certification number.

What Do Check It Out Home Inspection Reports Look Like?

At Check it Out, your Home Inspection Report includes easy to read details on:

● The condition of every major component of your home, from the roof to the basement. This includes, but is not limited to, the grounds, roof, exterior, garage, electrical, plumbing, kitchen, bathrooms, living spaces, and outbuildings.

● Evaluation and description of the manually tested working order of all operable systems, i.e. windows, doors, faucets and sinks, heating and a/c systems, etc.

● A summary page that helps to prioritize items of concern such as major defects, deferred cost items (things that may need replacing/repairing within 5 years), safety issues, potential improvements, and items to monitor.

About Check It Out Home Inspection

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

Home Inspection Services Home Inspector Portland Home Inspection

What Are The Standards Of Behavior For Portland Home Inspectors?

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

Oregon Home Inspectors Are Held To High Standards

Portland home inspectors, and in fact all Oregon home inspectors, are expected to know and keep for their records the Home Inspector Standards of Behavior and Standards of Practice. This list of standards is attached to each Home Inspector Application Packet provided by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). The CCB is the state organization that certifies Oregon Home Inspectors.

In Oregon, when you apply for your home inspector license, you are required to know the standards of behavior and standards of practice. Also required is passing the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE). Twelve percent of the national exam is focused on professional behavior, testing a home inspector’s understanding of the purpose of an inspection contract and clarifying the client’s rights as well as the home inspector’s rights. This part of the test also addresses an inspector’s ethical and legal responsibilities.

What Are Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR)?

According to Wikipedia, “Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) is the official compilation of rules and regulations having the force of law in the U.S. state of Oregon.” This is where we find Oregon’s Home Inspector Standards of Behavior (OAR 812-008-0201). There are four main sections to the Standards of Behavior. Below is a listing of all four sections.

(1) An Oregon certified home inspector shall not:

(a) Engage in dishonest or fraudulent conduct or undertake activities that are injurious to the welfare of the public, which result in injury or damage to another person.

(b) Disclose any information about the results of an inspection without the approval of the client for whom the inspection was undertaken.

(c) Accept compensation or any other consideration from more than one interested party for the same service without the consent of all interested parties.

(d) Directly or indirectly compensate realty agents, or other parties having a financial interest in closing or settlement of real estate transactions, for the referral of inspections or for inclusion on a list of recommended inspectors, preferred providers or similar arrangements. This paragraph is not intended to prohibit any discount, credit or add-on service made directly to an inspector’s client.

(e) Accept financial or other consideration, such as material or equipment, from suppliers for suggesting the use of, or promoting a specific product in the course of performing an inspection.

(f) Accept compensation, directly or indirectly, for recommending contractors, services, or products to inspection clients or other parties having an interest in inspected properties.

(g) Inspect properties under contingent arrangements whereby any compensation or future referrals are dependent on reported findings or on the sale of a property.

(h) Express, within the context of an inspection, an appraisal or opinion of the market value of the inspected property.

(i) Allow his or her interest in any business to affect the quality or results of inspection work that an Oregon certified home inspector may be called upon to undertake.

(j) Misrepresent any matters to the public.

(2) Opinions expressed by Oregon certified home inspectors shall only be based on their education, experience, and physical evidence observed by the inspector.

(3) Before the execution of a contract to undertake a home inspection, an Oregon certified home inspector shall disclose to the client any interest in a business that may affect the client.

(4) Nothing in OAR 812-008-0201 shall prohibit a business offering home inspection services from advertising services or for the purpose of recruiting employees and personnel. All such advertisements shall not be misleading or deceptive. A business shall not advertise home inspection services unless the business is properly licensed.

About Check It Out Home Inspection

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

Certification Home Inspection Services Home Inspector Portland Home Inspection

Do All Portland Home Inspectors Take The NHIE?

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

The National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE) ensures a consistent competency in Home Inspection. Home Inspection services in Oregon are regulated by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. To become a certified home inspector in the State of Oregon, one of the requirements is to pass the NHIE.

WHAT DOES THE EXAM INCLUDE?

Building Science takes up 64% of the test, while Analysis and Reporting take up 24% of the test, leaving Professional Responsibilities with the remaining 12%. We go into further detail of each domain below.

Building Science in the Home Inspector Exam

This part of the exam measures a home inspector’s ability to examine a site. This includes evaluating conditions, operability, materials, and installation practices of systems. These systems can include Electrical, Plumbing, Roof, Structure, Interior, Exterior, HVAC, Garage, and Grounds. This is the bulk of the test as this is the primary service a home inspector provides.

Analysis and Reporting in the Home Inspector Exam

Although this domain is smaller than Building Science it is still almost a quarter of the entire exam. This part measures a Home Inspector’s ability to create a home inspection report. These reports include the building systems examined, the methods used during each examination, an analysis of systems that are not performing well, and recommendations for any actions recommended to correct problems.

Professional Responsibilities Tested in The Home Inspection Exam

Although only 12 percent of the NHIE covers professional responsibilities, it is a critical component to the home inspection industry. This will test a home inspector’s understanding of the purpose of an inspection contract and clarifying the client’s rights as well as the home inspector’s rights. This part of the test also addresses an inspector’s ethical and legal responsibilities.

The key point for this part of the exam is to remind all home inspectors of the high standards we hold for quality, integrity, and objectivity. The home inspector standards of behavior and standards of practice are so integral to the State of Oregon that they are listed in the Home Inspector Application Packet.

Full-Service Home Inspection Services

About Check It Out Home Inspection

I look forward to meeting you at the inspection! -Karen

Home Inspection Services Portland Home Inspection

Clear The Path To Better Inspections!

Post author By Check It Out Home Inspection

I Want to Be Thorough

I strive to give my home inspection clients the most thorough and complete home inspection report possible. Unfortunately, I sometimes have to forgo inspecting a key system or section of the house because I simply cannot get to it.

Standards of Practice

Home inspectors are not obligated to move personal property, according to the Standards of Practice, 308-408C-030.16. If I do end up moving personal possessions, I always try to return them the way that I found them. But it is optimal for everyone if I do not need to.

Sellers Agents: Prepare Your Clients!

It is so great when seller’s agents prepare their client for the home inspection! The following are some things to remind your seller about before the day of the home inspection.

Packing, Stacking, and Stashing

Sellers are often in the process of moving. As they pack and stack boxes, they may inadvertently block areas of the house I need to get to. Sometimes the sellers just aren’t, well, the most minimalistic folks. Storage areas can be full to the brim with heavy or fragile items blocking the crawl space access, attic hatch, mechanicals, and electrical panels — which are all systems I want to inspect.

Inspecting Crawl Spaces

You would be surprised how many folks are not even aware that their house has a crawl space. The access may be outside where it can be blocked by a deck, hot tubs, etc. Sometimes the access is inside the house, usually in the floor of a coat closet or bedroom closet. Sellers should locate these access points ahead of time and make sure I can open and get through the hatch.

Inspecting Attics

The attic is where I find many problems, like leaking roofs, mold from poor ventilation, insulation issues, etc.

Three common places for attic access points are garage walls and ceilings, interior hallways, and closets. Garages and hallways frequently have a hatch with pull-down stairs. But I can’t use them if large, heavy or fragile items are in the way. Attic access points share the same access issues as crawl spaces. I come equipped with drop cloths to cover clothes in closets and to protect the floor, but it saves me time if there is less in my way.

Inspecting Electrical Panels

It is essential that I can get to the main service panel and any sub-panels. Most electrical panels are in the garage, but they can be practically anywhere. I have had everything from boxes to motorcycles to project cars preventing me from checking the electrical panel.

Inspecting Mechanicals

Furnaces and water heaters are often in utility areas and have stored items around them. Clearing personal items away from the equipment helps me to do a better job. Often when I am inspecting a condo, I do not have access to rooftop air conditioner units or I have access, but the units are not labeled as to which condo they serve!

The Bottom Line

The more I can inspect, the better job I can do for my client.

Check It Out Home Inspection Offers One-Stop Shopping

At Check It Out Home Inspection Services, we offer all the home inspection services you would expect. Electrical, plumbing, roof, structure, interior, exterior, HVAC, garage, and grounds. As a one-stop shop, we also offer sewer scoping, radon testing, and oil tank searches. Click to see our full list of home inspection services.

Check It Out Home Inspection provides service to the Greater Portland and Vancouver areas. You can schedule ALL services, 24/7, with a single click or call.