Home Inspection

As a Realtor I get asked this question all the time.
"Do I really need to hire a professional to do my home inspection?"
The answer of course is no, but do I recommend it? Yes!
As part of the Buyers Due Diligence you should have a home inspection done.
There are so many great home inspectors out there, who are licensed and educated.
It really doesn't cost that much to get a "clean bill of health" on one of the biggest investments you will ever make.
If you are a buyer and you need a home inspection let me know. I could make a recommendation for you. Send me an email KatieHomeSales@gmail.com or call me (801)357-9279.

If you decide to walk through on your own here are some things to check for.

(This is just some ideas of things to check in a home inspection. This checklist is not a replacement for a home inspection. Remember it is always best to check with a licensed professional.)

• Outside: Inspect the property grade to ensure proper drainage away from the house and out-buildings.  Beware of standing water.  Inspect the driveway and concrete for cracks, sinking and flaking.  Inspect railings, decking, wood siding and trim for damage, splitting and rot.  Inspect the roof, watch out for curled or damaged shingles.  Inspect the gutters for proper slope and installation.  
• Structure:  Ensure the roofline is straight.  Watch out for bowing and sagging.  Ensure the windows and doors are square by verifying that they open and close properly.  Inspect the foundation for flaking and large cracks.
• Windows and Doors:  Look for broken windows and be sure that windows and doors have been caulked and have proper trim. Look for loose or decaying trim.
• Exterior:  Ensure there are no water stains, or blistering of exterior coverings. Inspect the siding, stucco and/or brick for proper installation, damage and cracks.  Beware of severely cracked stucco that appears to be wet or stained.
• Roof: Ensure that the shingles are not curling or missing.  Look for rot or mold around edges of the roof. Inspect soffits, fascia and the chimney.
• Attic: Look for water stains and leaks.  Ensure it has been properly insulated and ventilated.
• Interior Rooms:  Inspect the walls for cracks, which would be a sign of a shifting or settling foundation.  Inspect all electrical fixtures.  Verify all outlets are functioning by testing them with a nightlight.  Verify light switches and lights are working.  Pay particular attention to three-way switches.   Look for proper heat vents and return air vents in living spaces.  Beware of possible lead paint in older homes.
• Kitchen: Verify outlets are GFCI protected.  Check the vent fan above the stove.  Check the disposal and inspect the pipes under the sink for rust, mold and water damage.  Test dishwasher and oven.  Inspect the cabinets and drawers for damaged hinges or broken rails.
• Bathrooms: Look for a functioning vent fan.  Inspect pipes under the sink for rust, mold, water damage.  Check the toilet and bathroom fixtures for leaks and ensure they are functioning properly.  Pay attention to water flow and drainage.  Inspect the shower and tub for proper installation with caulking. Check cabinets and drawers and look for damaged hinges or rails.
• Miscellaneous: Verify smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors are installed and working properly.  Be sure smoke detectors in basements are hard wired and not just battery powered.  Inspect hand rail to basement.  Inspect the garage door for proper installation and function.
• Basement or crawl space: Look for moisture, mold, water damage.  Inspect exposed pipes and wiring for proper installation.  Beware of sagging joists and large cracks in the home's foundation.
• Pipes: Look for stains which are a sign of leaking.  Inspect the water heater by opening the drain.  Look for rust-colored water from the drain.  This could be a sign that the water heater may begin leaking soon.
• Electrical: Ensure wiring is up to date with current regulation and city codes.  Check the electrical panel fuses or breakers and ensure there is adequate capacity in the breaker box to accommodate  unfinished spaces.
• Heating/Cooling: Check for proper airflow through ducts.  Inspect flues for rust.  Ensure there is no gas odor.  Beware of asbestos on heating pipes or airducts.  Ensure there are separate flues for gas/oil/propane and wood/coal.