A structural home inspection is meant to do a general check of the home’s foundation, structure, and main systems. Some of the most important areas to keep an eye on are your basement, attic, and chimney.
Structural Home Inspections vs. Home Inspections
There is a big difference between a structural home inspection and a standard home inspection. With a structural home inspection, there are more extreme restrictions.
This type of inspection is limited to the home’s foundation, structure, and main systems. Problems within these areas can have a major impact on your home’s safety and stability. This is a very high-level inspection meant for a home buyer who wants a more in-depth look into their future home.
With a home inspection, the inspection is more of a standard general look. The inspector will take a closer look at the major systems, plumbing, and electrical.
They’ll also cover the home’s general condition, looking at the roof, chimney, and attic insulation. This inspection isn’t as in-depth as a structural home inspection.
When Do You Need a Structural Home Inspection
Only you can decide if a structural home inspection is right for you. The inspector will advise you of the problem areas in your home and recommend a solution. If you’re looking at buying a home that’s more than 10 years old, you may want to consider getting one.
If you’re on a tight budget and are looking at a fixer-upper, you may also want a structural home inspection. This helps you get an idea of what you might be facing down the road.
If you’re looking at a new-construction home, you may want to consider waiting until you see the final product. At this point, you’ll have full knowledge of what you’re getting into with the home and won’t need an inspection.
What Can You Expect During a Structural Home Inspection
The inspector will take a close look at the foundation, walls, and other major components of the home.
The inspector will look at the foundation’s condition, the exterior walls (possible cracks and foundation movement), and other main components of the home, including the roof, chimney, and attic.
They’ll also look at the home’s general condition, checking the roof, exterior, and attic.
During the inspection, the inspector should fully explain everything they’re looking at in your home. They should also advise you on what you might want to do down the road.
They should also be able to tell you which areas of your home are most in need of some TLC. This will help you make the most out of any issues you may have if you decide to fix them before starting a new project.
The inspector should also be able to give you an estimate on how much the repairs will cost you.
The Right Inspection
It’s always good to know exactly what you’re getting into with the home you’re about to buy. Taking the necessary steps to ensure the safety and integrity of your home is important. With a structural home inspection, you can be sure that your home is structurally sound.
Let a structural engineer in Tulsa help you out today. AEI Inspections has extensive knowledge and background to identify structural issues and perform testing and troubleshooting of all home components and systems. Get in touch with us!
