Tips for Phoenix Home Inspectors
Getting a top-notch home inspection in Phoenix is crucial whether you are about to sell a home or purchase a home. Here are a few guidelines to doing your own property inspection to make sure your property inspector does what’s mandatory, but do not take this as legal help and always seek professional help. These axioms might also differ from state to state.
Before meeting with the Scottsdale home inspector, you will want to bring copies of the deed, survey, tax demand, leases, and receipts 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 vendor to invest time in the negotiation.
1 ) Exterior Inspection
Start 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. Check the condition of main walls, doors, and windows. Use your binoculars to test the roof, or if possible inspect it close-up. Is it cracking or thick with too many layers? Are the gutters and downspouts in good condition? Water is damaging, so be aware of drainage. Look for limp conditions, peeling paint, cracking mortar, algae and mold.
2) Major Systems Inspection
The basement is one of the most important parts of a property. From there, begin assessing the major systems. Check the foundation by studying the outside 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 leaking. Water pulls termites, so use your screwdriver to probe rafters for rotten wood.
3) Living Area Inspection
Next, inspect the living area. Check for an alarm system and smoke detectors. Note the smell-it can affect value. Tally the number of bedrooms and lavatories. ( According to FHA, a’bedroom’ is not a bedroom if you must walk through 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 electric sockets are grounded ( three prong ) and functional ( you may use an inexpensive electrical tester. )
These are just a few considerations 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 actually need your Scottsdale home inspection done or call 480-415-7977 if you are in the Cave Creek, Arizona area.
