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Types Of Home Inspections: Complete Guide

Troy Thornhill • September 13, 2024

Types of Home Inspections and Key Components of Each

When buying, selling, or maintaining a property, a comprehensive inspection is essential to ensure the building's safety and longevity. There are several types of home and property inspections available, each designed to focus on specific elements of a property. Below, we explore the key types of inspections offered by Healthy Home Inspections and what each entails.

1. General Home Inspection

A general home inspection is the most common type of inspection, typically conducted during the home-buying process. It provides a comprehensive evaluation of a property's overall condition, focusing on both the interior and exterior.


Key Components:

  • Roof: Condition of shingles, flashing, gutters, and potential leaks.
  • Foundation: Inspecting for cracks, water damage, or structural issues.
  • Plumbing: Checking for leaks, water pressure, and the condition of pipes.
  • Electrical Systems: Ensuring wiring, outlets, and breakers are up to code.
  • HVAC Systems: Assessing the heating, ventilation, and cooling systems.
  • Windows and Doors: Inspecting for functionality and any potential drafts or damage.

2. Commercial Inspection

A commercial inspection is designed for office buildings, retail spaces, and other commercial properties. The goal is to ensure the building complies with relevant safety regulations and is structurally sound for business operations.


Key Components:

  • Structure and Foundation: Evaluating load-bearing elements for any signs of wear or failure.
  • Fire and Safety Systems: Inspecting fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency exits.
  • Plumbing and Electrical Systems: Ensuring the systems are suitable for commercial usage.
  • Roof and Exterior: Checking for signs of wear, leaks, and potential repairs.
  • ADA Compliance: Ensuring the property meets the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

3. Mold Inspection

A mold inspection focuses on detecting moisture problems and mold growth, which can cause health issues and structural damage. This inspection is especially important in humid climates like Florida.


Key Components:

  • Moisture Detection: Using specialized equipment to identify areas with high humidity or water damage.
  • Visual Inspection: Identifying visible mold growth in basements, bathrooms, or other damp areas.
  • Air Quality Testing: Taking air samples to detect mold spores that may not be visible to the naked eye.
  • Lab Analysis: Testing samples in a lab to determine the type and concentration of mold present.

4. Pre-Listing Inspection

A pre-listing inspection is conducted before a homeowner puts their property on the market. It helps the seller identify and address potential issues, which can make the home more appealing to buyers.


Key Components:

  • Roof and Attic: Inspecting for leaks, wear, and proper insulation.
  • Foundation and Structure: Ensuring the home is structurally sound.
  • Major Systems: Assessing HVAC, electrical, and plumbing for functionality.
  • Cosmetic Issues: Identifying minor repairs like peeling paint or broken tiles that could affect the home's presentation.

5. New Construction Inspection

A new construction inspection is designed to ensure that a newly built home meets all local building codes and standards. This inspection takes place before the final walkthrough with the builder.


Key Components:

  • Foundation: Checking for any settling or structural concerns.
  • Roof and Framing: Ensuring the roof and structure are properly installed.
  • Plumbing and Electrical: Verifying that plumbing and electrical systems are up to code.
  • Interior and Exterior Finishes: Inspecting for any cosmetic or structural issues, such as uneven flooring or poorly installed siding.

6. 11th Month Warranty Inspection

The 11th month warranty inspection is conducted before the builder's one-year warranty on a new home expires. This inspection helps homeowners identify any defects that the builder is responsible for correcting.


Key Components:

  • Foundation and Structure: Identifying cracks, leaks, or settling that may have occurred after construction.
  • Roof and Exterior: Inspecting for damage or wear that may not have been present at the time of purchase.
  • Major Systems: Ensuring HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems are still functioning properly.
  • Interior Issues: Checking for any minor damages such as peeling paint, warping floors, or cracks in the drywall.

7. 4-Point Inspection

A 4-point inspection focuses on four critical areas of a home and is typically required for older homes when applying for homeowner’s insurance.


Key Components:

  • Roof: Checking for the roof’s age and condition.
  • Electrical: Evaluating the electrical wiring and panel.
  • Plumbing: Inspecting the plumbing system for leaks or deteriorating materials.
  • HVAC: Reviewing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure they are in good working order.

8. Wind Mitigation Inspection

A wind mitigation inspection is specific to areas prone to hurricanes, such as Florida. This inspection helps homeowners determine whether their home is equipped to withstand high winds and can also lower insurance premiums.


Key Components:

  • Roofing Structure: Assessing the roof’s resistance to wind uplift.
  • Hurricane Straps: Verifying that metal straps or clips are properly attached to the roof.
  • Shutters and Windows: Ensuring windows and doors are hurricane-resistant or have approved storm shutters.
  • Garage Doors: Inspecting garage doors to ensure they are reinforced and hurricane-rated.

Contact Us to Learn More

Healthy Home Inspections offers a wide range of services to ensure that your property, whether residential or commercial, is thoroughly inspected. Whether you're buying a new home, selling a property, or maintaining your investment, our team is equipped to provide you with a detailed, professional inspection report. Contact us today to schedule the inspection that's right for you!

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