Why doesn’t the inspector comment on termites or other pests?
The above are specialty inspections and not part of the standards of
practice that general inspectors are required to follow as part of their
certification. A general inspector may not even know what a termite
looks like. Also, any pest control operator must be licensed by the
state for that type of inspection.
Why won’t the inspector operate valves?
This is not included in the standards of practice. Opening valves
requires tools that the inspectors don’t usually carry. Also, the valves
may end up leaking and the inspector could be liable for any damage.
Will the inspector inspect the trees and landscaping?
No, since these are excluded from the standards of practice. The
inspector is mainly concerned with the structure and its systems. The
inspector will only make notes on trees or landscaping issues that
directly affect the structure, such as lack of clearance between the
roof and trees, or a retaining wall in disrepair. Anything more
specific, like the need to cut or remove a tree, would not be included
in the report. Information on landscaping would require a landscape
specialist.
Why don’t inspectors inspect the washer, dryer or fridge?
Those appliances are not considered to be part of the structure, and the
sellers often take them. Built-in appliances, however, are viewed as
being part of the building and therefore included in the general
inspection. That said, due to variations and complexities of models and
settings, the inspections on built-in appliances are very minimal.
Look for Your Burning Questions, Part 3 next month!
We offer:
• General physical inspection of houses, townhomes /condos.
• Property Condition Assessments on all types of commercial properties.
• Limited Building Inspection of systems only (reduced fee).*
• Sewer line inspection for residential & commercial (with video).
• Mold & Moisture inspections on both commercial and residential.
* The
Limited Building Inspection does not follow ASHI or CREIA Standards.
This reduced-cost inspection is performed per the Standards of Practice
of the Limited Building Inspection.