Help, When It’s Outside The Scope of the Home Inspection
Concealed Areas: If areas of the home are inaccessible or concealed from the inspector’s view, then an inspection of that area did not take place. 1) request that any information about any hidden problems be revealed to you about these inaccessible or hidden areas from the seller prior to closing the transaction. 2) return to the property prior to closing the transaction and perform a walk-through inspection of your own after the owner’s belongings have been removed 3) if your inspection or information reveals hidden damage or concerns contact a qualified specialist or your inspector for a return visit.
Building Code Violations: If you are concerned about code violations or building permit information you should: 1) Contract with this company to research permit information available at the appropriate local building inspections department. 2) If any have additional concerns with regard to code violations you may contract for a code compliance survey of the property. A typical home inspection is not such a service.
Geological Stability: Soil conditions or stability is not determined during this home inspection. Should you decide to obtain a geological report of the site conditions you might contact a geological inspection firm through our company or a non profit association of geotechnical engineers for referral.
Building Value Appraisal: For property value appraisal contact your bank, lender or our company for a referral to a licensed / qualified real estate appraiser.
Pool / Spa Bodies: This inspection does not include evaluation of pool or spa bodies below the water line of the pool (an additional fee is required). For further assistance and inspection we recommend contacting a licensed pool contractor or ask the seller if you may discuss the pool or spa with the maintenance company (if any) that the seller has used to clean and service the pool or spa.
Saunas / Steam Baths: For operating and maintenance information about saunas or steam baths contact the seller or installer. Additional information may be obtained by contacting a licensed contractor specializing in these systems.
Radio Controlled Devices: Numerous devices in homes that are operated with remote controls are not with in the scope of this inspection. For information about these devices we first suggest that you obtain a list of all the remote controls from the seller. (The operation of the overhead garage door automatic opener will be tested using the permanent control button provided in the house of garage.) Many radio controlled devices have changeable codes which you may want to consider altering for your use and safety.
Refrigerator / Personal Property: Most refrigerators typically move with the owners from one house to another as does personal property. Additionally, free standing appliances often are removed. It is recommended that you receive a list from the seller of all the items (with there model numbers if available) that will convey with the property. If you are concerned about the operation or condition of any item listed and not covered in the inspection report then an independent evaluation of that item should be ordered by you.
Smoke Detectors: Specific requirements governing the installation of smoke detectors can be obtained from the local building inspections department with regard to the type and placement with in the home. Our inspection of the smoke detectors in this home was to verify presence.
Alarm Systems: When an alarm system is installed in a home you should gather the following information: 1) how to activate and disarm the system, 2) exactly what sections of the home is protected and by what methods, 3) what company (if any) provides service for the system and terms of that service and 4) whether or not the system operates correctly (an inspection test can be performed by the alarm company). This system is not part of this home inspection.
Sewer Blockage: Check with the seller for information and the history of the house sewer system. Having a drain service company service the main line to be sure it is open and flowing is good advice also.
Furnaces & Air Conditioners: Servicing of these two major systems is often overlooked and when neglected can damage the components. Seasonal service is critical for proper performance.
Septic Systems: The private waste disposal system has under gone a cursory evaluation only (if it was noted as included in the inspection report as listed on the contract and invoice) during this inspection. For a complete “septic certification” you should contact a reputable septic company to uncover, pump and certify the system.
Covered Concrete Slabs: It is virtually impossible to determine the condition of a concrete slab floor that is covered with floor coverings. Nearly all concrete will have cracks of some type. The house however is not supported by the slab, it rests on the foundation and footings. Sometimes severe movement or cracks are apparent and if visible will be reported. For a complete slab evaluation the floor coverings will need to be removed and a re-inspection for an additional fee be performed.