November 27, 2009
Tips for Cave Creek Home Inspectors
Getting a quality home inspection in Cave Creek is crucial whether you are about to sell a home or get a home. Here are a few guidelines to doing your own property inspection to be certain your property inspector does what’s necessary, but don’t take this as legal help and always seek pro help. These tenets may also differ from state to state.
Prior to meeting with the Scottsdale home inspector, you’ll want to bring copies of the deed, survey, tax liability, leases, and bills for any major work on the property. These documents will familiarize the property inspector with your property ; likewise, the search of the same will cause the seller to invest time in the negotiation.
1 ) Exterior Inspection
Begin with an exterior assessment. With clipboard and pad, record impressions about neighboring property, driveways, walkways, stairways, and handicap access. Note the parking situation, grading, and landscaping. Inspect the condition of outside walls, doors, and windows. Use your binoculars to test the roof, or if possible check it close-up. Is it cracking or thick with too many layers? Are the gutters and downspouts in good condition? Water is deleterious, so focus on drainage. Look for damp conditions, peeling paint, cracking mortar, algae and mold.
2) Major Systems Inspection
The basement is one of the most significant parts of a property. From there, begin considering the major systems. Check the foundation by studying the supporting walls for sandy, cracked, or deteriorated mortar. To find air leaks, look for cobwebs-spiders spin them near openings to prey upon insects who enter from outside. Explain this entomology lesson to the seller as you pick at those energy inefficient cracks. Check the sump for water which indicates leakage. Water attracts termites, so use your screwdriver to probe rafters for rotten wood.
3) Living Area Inspection
Next, check the living area. Check for an alarm system and smoke detectors. Note the smell-it can affect value. Tally the number of bedrooms and toilets. ( According to FHA, a’bedroom’ is not a bedroom if you have to walk thru it to access another room. ) Many older homes lack closet space, so make note. Check the composition and condition of floors and walls. Test all windows and doors for simplicity of use. Also check that all electrical sockets are grounded ( 3 prong ) and functional ( you can use an inexpensive electrical tester. )
These are only a few points to consider when you get a home inspection done. This does not replace the recommendation of a real, qualified and experienced professional. Please seek qualified help when you really need your Cave Creek home inspection done or call 480-415-7977 if you are in the Phoenix, Arizona area.
