Home Inspections

A Check-up for Your House

Having a home inspected is like giving a house a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further review or repairs as needed by a qualified professional.

There are two types of home inspections: a traditional inspection purchased by the buyer, and a pre-sale inspection purchased by the seller. Both types of inspections are a snapshot in time that offer an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems in the home, from the roof to the foundation.

Our partner, SRE Home Inspections, recommends an inspector who is ASHI certified and follows the ASHI guidelines for home inspections.

Home inspection checklist

A typical home inspection includes examination and evaluation of these main areas:

• Foundation: General inspection, footing, basement floor slab, sump pump.
• Garage: Driveway and walkways, garage slab/floor, garage car doors, garage door opener.
• Windows: Window sills, frame, panes, shutters.
• Exterior: Siding, gutters and downspouts, deck, porch.
• Roof: General inspection, flashing, chimney cap, clay flue liner, skylights, roof vents.
• Attic: Stairway, structural components/rafters, evidence of moisture, attic flooring, appliance vents, ventilation, insulation.
• Interior: Drywall, fireplace, mantel, hearth, floor finish, doors, stairs.
• HVAC: Furnace operation, condition of filter; air conditioner condenser, duct work.
• Plumbing: Pipes, exterior hose bibs, venting system, sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, water heater.
• Electrical: Main panel, wiring, lights/switches, outlets, ground fault protection.

Attending the inspection

A typical home inspection takes 2-3 hours, with the walk-through usually taking about 30-45 minutes. With a traditional home inspection, the buyer and buyer’s agent will attend typically at the end of the inspection to review the home and inspection report in a thorough walk-through with the inspector.

It is suggested that the sellers not be present in the home during the home inspection. The home inspection is information for the buyer. Under AmeriSpec’s inspection agreement, it is not to be shared with the sellers of the property unless the buyer has agreed to do so.

With a pre-sale home inspection, the sellers will be the only ones present. A pre-sale home inspection is highly encouraged to maximize the seller’s equity and to make the closing process smooth.

Inspection report

After completion of the inspection, the inspector will generate a detailed computerized report covering the condition of the home and its 400+ components. In addition, digital photos of the roof, attic, areas of concern and any other areas where the client may not have had access to will be included.

The SRE report also includes a seasonal maintenance checklist to keep the client up to date on maintenance needs around the house.

To set up a whole home inspection, call SRE Home Inspections Omaha and Lincoln at 402-970-1340.