What Is Involved With a Building Inspection?

I received an email the other day from Debra from Emmaus, PA. She wanted to know what are the ins & outs of a building inspection. Deb, the home inspection is quite interesting and educational to the new home buyer. I liked to equate it as a crash course on being a new homeowner. A good inspector will spend anywhere from 3-4 hours inspecting & performing tests on the building. During the course of the inspection, he or she will explain all the functions & maintenance of your home. I would advise asking many questions during your visit. I would like to give you a synopsis of what to expect. Please be aware, some of these tests & inspections may or may not pertain to the home your are purchasing. Lets start with the outside, the inspector will look at the lot, grounds, drainage, retaining walls, fences, foundation, windows, doors, decks, patio, porches, roofs, chimneys, gutters, garages, pool and spa, and any out buildings. On the inside, the inspector will check out the kitchen, appliances, bathrooms, ceilings, walls, flooring, fireplaces, screens, stairways, attic, insulation, basement, and obvious health & safety issues. On the mechanical side the inspector will check your, electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems. He should also give you tips on what may need servicing on a periodic basis. The tests that can be performed are for Radon Gas, Septic Inspection, Mold and Air Quality, Lead Based Paint, Wood Destroying Insects, Bacteriological Water Test for additional fee they can test for e-coli, scan for hardness, metals & pH. Other tests can be EIFS Inspection, that is a stucco like exterior coating that can be problematic, Moisture Intrusion Inspection & Carbon Monoxide. The costs for the inspections can range from $200.00 to $700.00 depending on what you like to have done. Thanks for your question.