We always recommend a professional home inspection.
A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive examination of the condition of a home, often in connection with the sale of that home. Home inspections are usually conducted by a home inspector who has the training and certifications to perform such inspections.
The inspector prepares and delivers to the client a written report of findings. The client then uses the knowledge gained to make informed decisions about their pending real estate purchase. The home inspector describes the condition of the home at the time of inspection but does not guarantee future conditions, efficiency, or life expectancy of systems or components.
Sometimes confused with real estate a home inspector determines the condition of a structure, whereas an appraiser determines the value of a property. In the United States, although not all states or municipalities regulate home inspectors, there are various professional associations for home inspectors that provide education, training, and networking opportunities.
A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an inspection to verify compliance with appropriate codes; building inspection is a term often used for building code compliance inspections in the United States. A similar but more complicated inspection of commercial buildings is a property condition assessment. Home inspections identify problems but building diagnostics identifies solutions to the found problems and their predicted outcomes.
Source: Wikipedia
We have many great local inspectors in the Grand County area. Below is a list of recommended inspectors.
PMD Home Inspections LLC
Aspect Home Inspection Services, LLC
Finishing Touches
Tiger Home & Building Inspections
What a Home Inspection Should Cover
Home inspections will vary depending on the type of property you are purchasing. A large historic home, for example, will require a more specialized inspection than a small condominium. However, the following are the basic elements that a home inspector will check.
You can also use this list to help you evaluate properties you might purchase. For more information, try the virtual home inspection at www.ASHI.org, the website of the American Society of Home Inspectors. Structure: A home’s skeleton impacts how the property stands up to weather, gravity, and the earth. Structural components, including the foundation and the framing, should
be inspected.
be inspected.
Exterior
The inspector should look at sidewalks, driveways, steps, windows, and doors. A home’s siding, trim, and surface drainage also are part of an exterior inspection.
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Doors and windows
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Siding (brick, stone, stucco, vinyl, wood, etc.)
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Driveways/sidewalks
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Attached porches, decks, and balconies
Roofing
A well-maintained roof protects you from rain, snow, and other forces of nature. Take note of the roof’s age, conditions of flashing, roof draining systems (pooling water), buckled shingles, loose gutters and downspouts, skylights, and chimneys.
Plumbing
Thoroughly examines the water supply and drainage systems, water heating equipment, and fuel storage systems. Drainage pumps and sump pumps also fall under this category. Poor water pressure, banging pipes, rust spots, or corrosion can indicate problems.
Electrical
Safe electrical wiring is essential. Look for the condition of service entrance wires, service panels, breakers, and fuses, and disconnects. Also take note of the number of outlets in each room.
Heating
The home’s heating system, vent system, flues, and chimneys should be inspected. Look for the age of water heater, whether the size is adequate for the house, speed of recovery, and energy rating.
Interiors
An inspection of the inside of the home can reveal plumbing leaks, insect damage, rot, construction defects, and other issues.
An inspector should take a close look at:
- Walls, ceilings, and floors
- Steps, stairways, and railings
- Counter-tops, and cabinets
- Garage doors, and garage door systems
Ventilation/ Insulation
To prevent energy loss, check for adequate insulation and ventilation in the attic and unfinished areas such as crawlspaces. Also look for proper, secured insulation in walls. Insulation should be appropriate for the climate. Excess moisture in the home can lead to mold and water damage.
Fireplaces
They’re charming, but they could be dangerous if not properly installed. Inspectors should examine the system, including the vent and flue, and describe solid fuel burning appliances.
Radon
We always recommend that you get a radon test as 60% of the homes in Grand County have higher levels of radon.
If you need to have a well or septic inspection, below is a list of local area inspectors.
Civil Site and Soil
Karl Smith
Gatesman Environmental Consulting and Engineering LLC
Good To Go Portables and Sanitation
(970) 531-4357
[email protected]
Good To Go Portable
It is customary in our area that the seller uncovers the septic tank lids prior to the inspection. There are usually two or sometimes three septic lids and they can be a few inches to a couple of feet underground. Grand Mountain Group has been known to locate and dig, but it is not our preference!
[email protected]
Good To Go Portable
It is customary in our area that the seller uncovers the septic tank lids prior to the inspection. There are usually two or sometimes three septic lids and they can be a few inches to a couple of feet underground. Grand Mountain Group has been known to locate and dig, but it is not our preference!
Typically, the homeowner or someone is hired to dig or hire a backhoe. The seller is usually also responsible for having the septic pumped. The standard recommendation is that a septic system is pumped every two to five years, however at the time of inspection, the tanks need to be empty and then a camera will scope the surroundings.
