The InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) Standards of Practice (SOP) are designed to provide a comprehensive yet non-invasive visual inspection of a home’s readily accessible systems and components.
Here’s what is generally covered by these standards for a home inspection in Linda, CA:
1. Structural Components:
- Foundation: Looking for visible signs of settlement, movement, or water penetration.
- Floors, Walls, Columns, Ceilings: Checking for structural integrity, damage, or signs of moisture.
2. Exterior:
- Siding, Flashing, Trim: Inspecting for damage, improper installation, or conditions that could lead to water intrusion.
- Doors and Windows: Checking functionality, weather tightness, and condition.
- Decks, Balconies, Stoops, Steps, Porches, Railings, Guards, and Handrails: Assessing safety, attachment, and condition.
3. Roofing:
- Covering Materials: Evaluating the type, condition, and expected life of roofing materials.
- Gutters and Downspouts: Checking for proper drainage, attachment, and condition.
- Roof Penetrations: Inspecting flashings, skylights, vents, and chimneys for integrity and leaks.
4. Plumbing:
- Interior Water Supply and Distribution: Checking fixtures, faucets, and looking for leaks.
- Drains, Wastes, and Vents: Observing for slow drainage, blockages, or improper venting.
- Water Heating Equipment: Verifying operation, condition, and safety features like temperature-pressure relief valves.
5. Electrical:
- Service Entrance and Panels: Inspecting service drop, main panel, and grounding.
- Branch Circuits: Checking a representative number of outlets, switches, and fixtures for functionality and safety.
6. Heating and Cooling Systems:
- Heating Equipment: Evaluating operation, condition, and safety of heating systems.
- Central Cooling Equipment: Inspecting the cooling system for operation when conditions allow (typically above 65°F outside).
- Distribution Systems: Checking ducts or other distribution methods for condition.
7. Interior:
- Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Stairways, and Railings: Looking for damage, structural issues, or safety concerns.
- Doors and Windows: Checking for functionality and condition.
8. Insulation and Ventilation:
- Insulation: Inspecting type and approximate depth in unfinished spaces.
- Ventilation: Assessing for the presence and effectiveness of attic and foundation ventilation.
9. Fireplaces and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances:
- Fireplaces: Checking for damage, operation of dampers, and visible flue integrity.
10. Garage:
- Vehicle Doors and Garage Door Openers: Ensuring proper operation and safety features like auto-reverse.
Exclusions:
- Cosmetic or Decorative Items: Paint, wallpaper, not generally inspected.
- Environmental Testing: Unless specifically requested, inspectors do not test for mold, asbestos, radon, or lead paint.
- Specialized Systems: Unless agreed upon, inspections do not cover wells, septic systems, pools, or outbuildings.