Inspection Overview

A properly conducted home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the structure, systems and components of a home by an experienced, objective professional home inspector. Homebuyers entering the Michigan marketplace view inspections as a way to gain valuable information about the biggest purchase of their lives. It helps them to determine whether there are any major defects or system inadequacies at the time of purchase and it will educate them about the construction, operation and maintenance of the home.

In most cases, a home inspection is performed after the seller has accepted the buyers purchase agreement, conditional upon a satisfactory home inspection. The inspection can be scheduled within a few days. The home buyer is encouraged to attend the inspection so that they can see firsthand the inner workings of the home, ask questions about any problems or defects that may be discovered, and to discuss potential desired changes or improvements.

An Educational Experience

The home inspectors service to their client is primarily one of education. The goal of the inspector is to provide their client/buyer with a better understanding of the physical condition of the home and what repairs or improvements may be needed. In many cases, the information obtained from the inspection can save the home buyer hundreds, thousands and even tens of thousands of dollars. After the inspection is completed, a comprehensive report is prepared for the buyer, documenting the results of the inspection.

What is Inspected?

A complete home inspection should cover all of the major systems of a house, including structure, exterior, roofing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing and interior. At a minimum, an inspection should meet the Standards of Practice of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Safe & Sound home inspectors are ASHI Certified Inspectors and adhere to the ASHI Standards of Practice.

A Safe & Sound home inspection includes a thorough visual examination of the house from top to bottom. During the inspection the following systems and components will be evaluated: 

• Roof: Roof coverings, flashings, roof drainage systems, skylights, chimneys, plumbing vents and ventilation.
• Exterior/Site: Exterior walls, siding, trim, windows, doors, porches, patios, decks, steps, stairs, garages, sidewalks, driveways and grading.
• Structure: Foundations, basements and crawlspaces.
• Attics: Framing, sheathing, insulation and ventilation. 
• Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, countertops, cabinets, stairs and fireplaces. 
• Plumbing: Water distribution piping and valves, gas distribution piping and valves, sinks, toilets, tubs, showers and water heaters.
• Electrical: Service entrance wires, main electrical panels, auxiliary electrical panels, distribution branch wiring, outlets, switches, lighting fixtures, and ceiling fans.
• Heating/Cooling: Heating systems, cooling systems, house fans, humidifiers and air filters/cleaners.