When you’ve found and made an offer to buy a home, you will be given an opportunity to hire a home inspector to get the home checked out. At the home inspection the home inspector examine the exterior parts and visible structure of the home. There are seven exterior areas the home inspector will focus on.
1. Eaves and Trim – When looking at the eaves and trim, the home inspector probe for rotted wood. If permitted the home inspector will use a ladder to analyze the eaves and trim work for rotted wood. If the home inspector can’t, for height or landscape reasons, use a ladder they will usually use a pair of binoculars. If the home has gutters installed, the home inspector will inspect to see if they are clean and secured to the home.
2. Exterior Siding Material – The home inspector will analyze the exterior siding of the home and report on any defects in the wall covering. The home inspector will also provide the kind of material on the exterior walls. Commonly used materials are brick, vinyl, wood shake, and stucco.
3. Paint and Caulking – The home inspector will report on the general condition of the painted exterior areas like the siding, windows, doors, porches, etc. In addition, the caulking will also be examined around the doors and windows.
4. Windows and Doors – During the home inspection, the home inspector will report on the overall condition and any defects present, such as broken glass, in the home inspection report.
5. Screens and Storm Doors – The home inspector will document any missing or torn screens. If the home has exterior storm doors installed, the home inspector will document any defects to the storm doors.
6. Porches, Decks, Patios, and Balconies – The home inspector will report on the condition of any porches, decks, patios, and balconies attached to the home. All defects are reported in the inspection report. Typical defects include problems with steps, railings, and wood to soil contact.
7. Additions – Many homes, particularly older ones, have had additional square footage added to them. The home inspector will comment on the connection of the main home and the addition and any defects that exist in the structure where the two sections meet.
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