HOME INSPECTION - WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
Learn From Your Home Inspection
When you hire an inspector it's important to find a reputable person you can trust and someone who will take the time to show you the intimate details of your new home. Getting acquainted with your new home in this way may save you time and money. In addition to paying close attention to the condition of the house, take notice of the location of items like the water shutoffs, electrical panel, gas main, and hot water heater. Being familiar with these items will give you some peace of mind if you are ever faced with an emergency. Knowing the location of, and how to turn off, the main water valve along with the smaller valves under sinks and commodes can save flooring costs if you have a large leak. The gas main will also have a shut off valve in case of an emergency. You should check all your valves periodically to check that they are in good repair. Look for the electrical panel. Are the switches labeled? If not, you may have a family project on your hands. One member at the electrical panel flipping switches, the other in the house manning the switches and outlets. Turn on all the lights and plug radios and lamps into switches then start flipping. The good thing about this project is that it only has to be done once unless you remodel. The hot water heater is also an item to look out for. Check it for rust and know where its shutoff valve is located. If you have children they should be taught how to use these valves too. Dishwashers should also be checked for rust. They tend to rust from the bottom up. If you see rust in the basin it may need to be replaced. Remember when working with an inspector pay close attention to details and look for important valves and safety switches. Together we can find an inspector that can help get you off to a good and safe start in your new home.
