home inspector

8 Things to Expect from a Home Inspection in the Upper Valley

A home inspection is a crucial step in the home buying process in the Upper Valley. It’s an opportunity for a qualified local inspector such as Dave DeSimone of River Valley Home Inspections LLC, or Kurt Grassett of Norway Hill Home Inspections to assess the condition of the property and identify any potential issues or concerns. Here’s what you can expect during a typical home inspection:

8 Things to Expect from a Home Inspection

Exterior Inspection

The inspector will examine the exterior of the home, including the roof, siding, foundation, windows, doors, and drainage systems. They will look for signs of damage, deterioration, or structural issues. This is especially important in Vermont and New Hampshire, given the harsh weather we can experience that leads to the degradation of these surfaces.

Interior Inspection

Inside the home, the inspector will assess the condition of walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows. They will check for any visible signs of water damage, mold, pest infestations, or other issues. Luckily, in the Upper Valley, we don’t generally get pests like termites, but red squirrels, birds, or ants are definitely prevalent. Does the bathroom fan vent into the attic? On many older homes, I’ve seen this happen, and it leads to moisture in the attic and mold issues. Your inspector will attempt to uncover issues like this.

Mechanical Systems

The inspector will inspect the home’s mechanical systems, including the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, plumbing, electrical wiring, and water heater. They will test these systems to ensure they are in good working condition and meet safety standards.

Kitchen and Bathrooms

Special attention will be paid to the kitchen and bathrooms, as these are areas prone to plumbing issues and moisture problems. The inspector will check for leaks, proper drainage, functional fixtures, and signs of water damage.

Structural Integrity

The inspector will evaluate the structural integrity of the home, including the foundation, walls, support beams, and framing. They will look for any signs of sagging, shifting, or settlement that could indicate structural problems.

Safety Hazards

The inspector will identify any potential safety hazards in the home, such as exposed wiring, trip hazards, improperly installed appliances, or lack of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Documentation and Reporting

After the inspection is complete, the inspector will provide you with a detailed report outlining their findings. This report may include photographs, descriptions of any issues found, and recommendations for repairs or further evaluation by specialists.

Questions and Recommendations

During the inspection process, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns with the inspector. They may also offer recommendations for routine maintenance or repairs to help you maintain the home in the future.

Overall, a home inspection provides valuable information about the condition of the property and can help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase. It’s important to attend the inspection if possible and carefully review the inspector’s findings before finalizing the sale. If significant issues are uncovered, you may have the option to negotiate repairs or adjustments to the purchase agreement with the seller.