During the process of the home inspection, the home inspector will examine the garage to determine if any defects and potential safety hazards are present. Here is a list of five areas inside the garage the home inspector will look at.
1. Garage Type – The first thing the home inspector will determine is the type of garage. For example, is the garage attached, detached, built-in, basement, or carport and will the garage hold one car, two car, three car, etc?
2. Construction – When the home inspector inspects the garage he will be determining how the garage is built. There are many kinds of construction types such as wood frame, steel frame, masonry etc. All garages are either finished or unfinished on the inside. In a finished garage the walls are closed in and insulated where in an unfinished garage the walls studs are exposed. The home inspector will also comment on the condition of the garage floor and determine if the door into the home satisfies fire nd safety requirements.
3. Electrical – The garage will likely have some electrical outlets and switches. The home inspector will test the electrical outlets to verify they are wired properly and determine if they have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection. If the electrical panel box is located in the garage it will be noted in the home inspection report. All other electrical details will be within the electrical part of your home inspection report.
4. Garage Doors and Openers – The garage doors will be examined for any visible signs of defects. If the garage doors have an automatic garage door openers installed, the home inspector will test them to see if they are operating correctly. Automatic garage door openers should have a safety feature called auto reverse installed that does not allow door to close on someone.
5. Plumbing – Any plumbing fixtures like sinks, and washer connections will be examined. If the hot water heater is located in the garage, the home inspector will check for defects and verify it is installed correctly based on the fuel source used. If the water heaters are gas heated, it should be installed at least 18 inches off the ground on a secured platform. The home inspector will also test any sinks or plumbing fixtures.
Garages vary in size, type, and amenities. This article is a general overview of what the home inspector will look for. Additional items may need to be inspected based on equipment installed and the home inspectors findings.
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