There are literally hundreds of components and items that are inspected in a home although it may not be completely obvious at first. For example, the roof may appear to be a simple analysis - it has shingles and presently there are no leaks. However, as home inspectors, we look at more than that. We will look at:
- Type and style of roofing material
- Style of the roof - gable, hip, gambrel, flat, shed, Mansard, butterfly, etc.
- The condition of roofing material
- Underlayment material (what can be seen without removing shingles)
- Gutter system and downspouts
- Condition and type of flashings - step, head, counter, valley, etc.
- Venting system - lower and upper vent or side venting
- Observations of past leaks
- Pipe flashing/boots
- Chimney condition
- Drip edge on the eave with roof membrane overlapping
- Drip edge on the rake with roof membrane underlapping
- Electrical power-line correctly attached
- The underside of roof deck condition
- Will check for mold-like material, lichen, and algae
- Vegetation (trees) affecting roof system
- Ensure proper clearances for roof pipe penetrations
...And this is just the roof. We follow the InterNACHI standards of practice. These are the minimum standards that will be met with every home inspection. The standards of practice can be viewed here: https://www.nachi.org/sop.htm
Other components and systems of the home will include the foundation, siding, windows, doors, structure, plumbing, electricity, HVAC, water heater, kitchen and appliances, all interior rooms (living room, dining room, bathrooms, bedrooms, laundry room, family/rec room, storage room, closets), sewer, overhead garage door, basement/crawlspace, vents, attic, insulation, fireplace, decks, and driveway, grading, moisture problems, safety and functioning of components.
*Since the inspection is a visual non-evasive inspection there may be components that cannot be seen due to the condition of the home. We will not, for example, lift up carpet, cut holes in walls, move personal belongings, turn on main lines (such as electric, gas, or water) if it is turned off. We will let you know what cannot be seen before the conclusion of the inspection.
Click on the picture below to see a virtual inspection for yourself!