Top 10 Things Not Covered In A Home Inspection

Potential home inspection clients ask me, "Do you cover this? Do you cover that?". There is much confusion as to what is and is not covered in a home inspection. Since there are "Top 10" lists for just about everything else, I've made a list of the top 10 things not covered in a home inspection:

1.   Low-voltage systems

• Computer, phone, built-in audio, intercom systems, landscape lighting, security, irrigation systems, etc. (I offer an inspection upgrade which includes evaluation of the irrigation system.)

2.   Accessory items

• Fountains, water purification systems, shower steamer units, water circulator pumps, remote control units, mechanical driveway gates, etc.
  

3.   Inaccessible systems or components

• Outside area drains, components within walls or ceilings, padlocked electrical panels, locked rooms, attic areas too cluttered for access or with limited clearance, etc.
  

4.   Termite/Pest inspection

• Although I note dry rot or termite-damaged areas that I see during my home inspection, I advise my clients to refer to the termite report. A licensed pest inspection company provides an extensive evaluation and prescribes remedies for treatment.
  

5.   Septic and well inspection 

• These specialized inspections are available through private contractors.
  

6.   Environmental testing

• An industrial hygienist, mold, lead paint, or haz-mat specialist can be consulted for environmental testing and clean-up. (When I discover suspected environmental hazards during a home inspection, they are noted in my report. Lab testing is necessary to confirm the presence of hazardous material.)
  

7.   Check for permits

• If a home has had alterations, additions, or remodeling, a check for permits is beyond the scope of a home inspection.
  

8.   Repair or replacement estimates

• Licensed contractors should be consulted for repair estimates. The California Business & Professions Code prohibits a home inspector from performing any repairs on a home inspected within one year.
  

9.   Energy efficiency

• Determining a home's degree of energy efficiency is beyond the scope of a home inspection. (I offer an infrared energy scan for an additional fee.)
  

10. Remaining life of components or       systems

• One of the questions I get asked most is, "How long will this roof last?" In this case, a roofing contractor can issue a roof certification which will guarantee the roof to be leak-free for a set number of years.
  

So, there's my list of top 10 things not covered in a home inspection! Steve Stenros is the owner of First Choice Inspections and is a CREIA MCI inspector. Clients receive a FREE lifetime appliance RecallChek with every standard home inspection. Appointments can be obtained by calling 888-335-3040.

Originally posted on My Home Inspection Blog