No matter how savvy or handy you might be, it's always best to cover your bases with a home inspection. General inspection companies typically offer add-on services. Depending on local regulations or areas of concern, it's also possible that you'll need to hire additional professionals for a more in-depth evaluation. Here are some of the specialty inspection services to consider during your next purchase.
pest inspections
For buyers obtaining a VA mortgage, a pest inspection is required in many states. Pest inspectors check for signs of wood destroying insects and animals that can cause issues in your home. Leaving a pest problem unchecked can lead to structural damage and/or health nuisances.
septic & well
Septic and wells are very costly systems to replace, so it's imperative that you understand the age and condition before completing your purchase. These systems are also highly regulated in many areas and require ongoing inspections and permits. Some counties even have a Point of Sale ordinance that requires septic inspections prior to the sale of a property as failing sanitary systems can become a public health hazard.
If the seller doesn't provide you with maintenance information or the documentation required per your county, contact your local health department to find out how to obtain these records. You might also be able to schedule inspections and water/soil tests through the county health department.
infrared thermography
Thermal Imaging Cameras allow inspectors to see temperature variations in the environment. Using this technology they can scan for moisture, leaks, missing insulation, excess heat in electrical components, energy loss, structural deficiencies, and pest damage.
sewer scope
Homeowners are responsible for maintaining sewer lines that connect to the municipal sewer main. Issues often require extensive repairs at a significant cost to the owner. Not only will you need to repair the sewer line itself, but oftentimes yards, landscaping, and sidewalks will need to be excavated at the owner's expense.
During a sewer scope, the inspector will snake a camera through the sewer lines to check for tree roots, collapsed lines, pipe separation, leaks, and blockages.
water line inspections
This service is very similar to the sewer scope. The inspector will snake an HD camera through the pipes to search for clogs, cracks, corrosion, blockages, and mineral buildup. This is the least invasive way to check the condition of the home's plumbing, meter, and municipal water connection.
structural inspections
Every home experiences settling and cracking, but if you or your general inspector have concerns about the structure of a home, it's a good idea to call in a specialist. Many foundation issues can be affordably repaired when they're caught early, however, ongoing movement can create major damage that comes with a hefty bill.
Depending on the extent and location of the defect, a structural engineer or foundation specialist can perform an evaluation.
chimney inspection
Chimneys that aren't in proper working condition pose carbon monoxide and fire risks. A chimney inspection will alert you to creosote buildup, cracks, blockages, and flue damage. It's a good idea to hire a CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep who can offer 3 different levels of inspections based on the known maintenance and a visual assessment of the chimney's interior. The National Fire Protection Association strongly recommends that a level 2 inspection be performed anytime there is a transfer of property.
radon testing
According to the EPA, radon is an odorless, tasteless gas that causes cancer. A radon inspection involves a machine or test kit that's typically placed in the home for 2-3 days. People can come and go during this time but it's advised that windows and exterior doors remain closed otherwise. The test measures the radon levels in the air. The EPA recommends radon mitigation in homes above 4 pCi/L.
mold
Mold inspectors evaluate conditions in the home that could lead to mold, perform a visual assessment, and thoroughly review areas that are prone to mold growth. If they locate mold, they'll try to determine the cause and assist you with options for remediation.
lead-based paint inspections
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint which is extremely harmful when it's in a high traffic area or when the paint is damaged. Lead paint does not pose health risks when it's in good condition and in a location where it's unlikely to be disturbed in the future. Certified lead inspectors must adhere to EPA guidelines while performing risk assessments or abatement.
asbestos
Like lead-based paint, disturbed asbestos is a huge safety hazard. Older homes are especially at risk as asbestos has been used for a variety of products in the past. The material was largely phased out of residential use by the 1980s. Health problems are caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Asbestos in good condition is not hazardous and should be left undisturbed. If you or a home inspector find a material that is damaged and suspected to be asbestos, you should contact someone who specializes in environmental consulting and abatement.
buried oil tanks
Many states require homeowners to register their underground oil or storage tanks (USTs) and disclose their presence when selling the home. Leaks from USTs can cause serious environmental hazards and abandoned tanks must be properly decommissioned. If contamination from an oil leak is particularly bad or affects groundwater, the cost to correct it can be as much as $1 million. According to the EPA, the average cost of cleanup is $130,000.
If a seller discloses a buried oil tank or if there is evidence to believe one is located on the property, buyers are urged to contact a professional environmental services company to locate and/or test the site.