What Is a Home Inspection and What Does It Cover?

There are several services that may be vital when buying or selling a home (or in certain other circumstances), and a home inspection is almost always on this list. What exactly is a home inspection, and what does it cover?

At Aerolite Consulting, we’re here to offer the very best home inspection services around Salt Lake City, from standard inspections to environmental testing services like asbestos testing, mold testing and more. Here are some basics on what home inspections are and why they’re often ordered, plus some of the key areas that will always or often be covered.

What is a Home Inspection? Why Get One?

Firstly, a home inspection is an overview of the current condition of a property. It’s performed by professional inspectors who are trained to look for specific issues or red flags that may affect the value or safety of the home.

A home inspection is usually ordered before buying or selling a house, but can also be beneficial in other situations such as when refinancing or if there are concerns about potential hazards like mold or asbestos.

There are several reasons why getting a home inspection is important, including protection of investment, identification of potential safety hazards, and the ability to negotiate repairs or discounts based on the findings.

It’s important to note that not all home inspections cover the same components or areas. Our next couple sections will dig further into this concept.

Home Inspection Essentials

For any purchase or sale situation, there are several elements that will almost always be inspected during a home inspection. These include the structure, roof, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical and appliances. A good inspector will also check for proper ventilation and insulation levels.

A thorough home inspection will take at least two to three hours to complete on an average-sized house. You’ll receive a detailed report with photos showing any issues noted during the inspection.

Additional Areas Covered

While some areas are standard inclusions in a home inspection, others may not be automatically included or may require additional testing services at an extra cost. These often include environmental hazards like mold and asbestos, which can have serious health implications if present.

In addition, depending on the location and age of the home, other areas that may be covered during a home inspection include termites or other pest infestations, radon levels, and water quality testing.

Importance of Hiring a Professional

While it may seem tempting to save money by skipping a professional home inspection or opting for a DIY approach, this is not recommended. Professional inspectors have specialized training and experience in identifying potential issues that may not be immediately apparent to an untrained eye.

In addition, professional inspectors often carry liability insurance which can protect both buyers and sellers in case of any unforeseen issues that arise after the sale.

In summary, a home inspection is an important step in the buying and selling process of a property. It provides crucial information about the current condition of the home and can help identify potential hazards or areas that may need repairs.

It’s always recommended to hire a professional inspector for this task and to be mindful of any additional services that may be needed depending on the specific circumstances of the home. At Aerolite Consulting, we offer comprehensive home inspections as well as environmental testing services to ensure your safety and peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule your inspection!