Buying a home is an investment, so it's vital that you don't end up facing astronomical repair costs right out of the gate. Fortunately, a professional home inspection will highlight any cause for concern before you finalize the sale. Here's a closer look at what you can expect from the process as well as what issues fall outside the boundaries of a typical service.

A Guide to Standard Home Inspections

What's Included?

The evaluation is broken into three categories: interior, exterior, and structural. Inside, the inspector tests appliances included in the sale, HVAC components, plumbing apparatuses, and electrical systems. Outside, they inspect the cladding, roof, paint, and lighting features for damage. In both areas, they'll also consider cosmetic conditions to identify a need for repairs.

For structural, the inspector evaluates the foundation and visible framing. During their interior and exterior walk-through, they'll look for signs of settling and separation issues by examining walls, flooring, ceilings, and visible concrete outside and in the basement. In the attic, they examine beams for signs of damage as well as evaluate the height and placement of insulation in the space.

What's Not Included?

Standard home inspections cover a wide range of interest points, but there are some categories that aren't included. One of these issues is pests, which are a top concern for many buyers, especially termites. Other specialty areas include toxicity issues, such as the presence of radon, lead, and mold. Some home inspectors may offer these areas as additional services, but in most cases, you need to hire an industry-specific professional certified in those subjects.

Don't make a new home purchase blind; turn to the expert team at Sherlock Home Inspection for thorough property evaluations. Since 1998, the fully accredited and licensed business has provided homeowners across Bracken County, KY, with peace of mind. From new builds to pre-purchase assessments, the certified home inspectors are known for efficient, affordable and accurate work. Learn more about their services on their website, or request a home inspection quote today by calling (606) 782-1430.