Typical Home Inspections
Buyers are encouraged to conduct any and all inspections by qualified experts to verify the condition of a property. This list summarizes many types of inspections, but you should investigate anything that concerns you. Be careful to watch the dates and other requirements about inspections in your sales contract.
Order a C.L.U.E. report from www.choicetrust.com to determine any potential insurance issues for your or the property.
Research School Information (School District – Be sure to ask about any upcoming school boundary changes.)
Covenants and Restrictions
Talk to Neighbors
Builder’s References and Reputation (for new home purchase)
Building Site Info (i.e. excessive fill, built over pond site, etc.) Check with engineering firm that developed the area.
Whole House Inspection (for plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, appliances)
Structural Engineer (for foundation, roof structure and chimney)
Termites & Wood Destroying Insects
Radon Gas (EPA Radon Gas)
Chimney Sweep
Roof
Sewer Line (house to street) Sewer Hook-up (Is it actually hooked up to the public system?)
Septic system (Johnson County Sewer / Septic Inspection)
Masonite Siding (Masonite Siding Claims)
Mold & Microbials (EPA Airduct Information)
Synthetic Stucco Exterior (EIFS)
Polybutylene Pipes (http://www.plumbing911.com/)
Proximity to Toxic Areas (www.epa.gov)
Proximity to Sexual Predators (Contact local Sheriff’s Department)
Swimming Pool
Sauna, Hot Tub
Inground Sprinklers
Alarm system
Taxes & Zoning & City or County Master Plans – Contact local city and county governments.
Cistern / Well (EPA Safewater)
Lead Based Paint (EPA Lead)
Asbestos EPA Asbestos
Electromagnetic Fields
Carbon Monoxide
Underground Storage Tanks
Hillside Stability
Air and Water Quality (EPA Air & Water Quality)
Causes of Moisture in Basement (Water in Basements)
Other Information: Consumer Housing Advocates – HADD) and Better Business Bureau
Inspectors are supposed to be licensed and insured in Kansas but not Missouri.
Many belong to National Home Inspection Associations. –
ASHI(American Society of Home Inspectors)
NACHI (National Association of Certified Home Inspectors)
NAHI (National Association of Home Inspectors)
PITI (Professional Inspection Training Institute)
ACI (Association of Construction Inspectors)
IHINA (Independent Home Inspectors of North America)
Another consideration is a “re-inspection” by your own inspector after the Seller has completed the agreed-upon repairs.
Always hire the most qualified person you can find. Ask about their experience, education, references and insurance. Many of the above inspections require an engineer to conduct a “Phase 1 Inspection.” Making informed decisions about your home avoids surprises. You can eliminate the guesswork and reduce the potential for problems by hiring qualified inspectors. Your cousin Bob might not be that person.
