Types of Home Inspections Buyers Should Know About
A home inspection includes information on nearly every part of a property, but in some cases you may want separate inspections covering radon, pests, mold and foundation issues.
A standard home inspection provides you with a detailed report on the home you’re hoping to buy, but it doesn’t tell you everything.
Depending on the age, location and condition of the home you’re considering, you may need additional inspections. Radon testing, termite inspection, mold inspection and foundation inspection are among the most common of these specialized types of home inspections.
Here is what is typically included in a home inspection:
1. Structural components (floors, walls, ceilings, stairs)
2. Exterior components (siding, attached decks, porches
3. Roof
4. Plumbing
5. Heating and air conditioning
6. Major appliances
7. Ventilation
8. Insulation
9. Fireplaces and wood stoves
10. Windows and doors
Different types of home inspections
Depending on what they find, your home inspector may suggest some of these additional inspections.
Radon Testing
Radon is an odorless, colorless gas that results from the gradual breakdown of radioactive elements in the Earth. It is released from well water, building materials and soil, and can enter your home through cracks. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the surgeon general’s office estimate that, after smoking, radon exposure is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. And it’s everywhere — according to the EPA, roughly 1 in 15 homes has an elevated radon level.
Wood-Destroying Organism (WDO) Inspection
More commonly called a termite inspection, a wood-destroying organism inspection ensures your future home doesn’t already have six-legged tenants. Termites, wood-boring beetles and carpenter ants are among the most concerning culprits, though WDO inspectors will also look for dry rot caused by fungi.
To locate a licensed inspector or exterminator, the National Pest Management Association is a good place to start; the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors also licenses WDO inspectors. Termite inspection costs can vary, but are generally around $100.
Mold Inspection
The EPA’s recommendation about mold testing is essentially if you see mold, you’ve got mold — and you might need to go straight to remediation. But if you’re concerned about what you can’t see (or smell), a home mold inspection may be in order.
To find a certified mold inspector near you, try the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors. Mold inspection costs vary based on home size; you can expect to pay from $200 to over $600.
Foundation Inspection
A home inspector will look at the house’s foundation and note potential issues like drainage problems, nearby tree roots, cracks or other indications of movement. If anything looks worrisome, the inspector may suggest having the property examined by a residential structural engineer.
A structural engineer can provide a comprehensive inspection of the foundation, diagnose the causes of any issues and explain how they can be addressed. Before you hire an engineer, check their credentials with your state’s licensing board — you can find a comprehensive list of links on the National Society of Professional Engineers website. Foundation inspection costs vary depending on where you live, but are generally about $500.