What is Not Included in a Home Inspection: Considerations for Buyers and Sellers

When you are buying a home, it is important to have a home inspection done. This will help you identify any problems with the property that need to be fixed before you move in. A home inspection includes a lot of different elements, but there are some things that are not included. For example, most home inspectors will not inspect the sewer line or septic system, identify mold or pest infestation, comment on cosmetic aspects, and a few other elements.

At Towne & Country Building Inspectors, we provide Milwaukee home inspection, historic home inspection, and many other services for homeowners and home buyers just like you. In this blog post, we will talk about what is not included in a home inspection so that you know what to expect during your next home inspection.

Sewer and septic inspection. A typical home inspection does not include an inspection of the sewer line or septic system. This is because these systems are buried underground and require special equipment to inspect. If you are concerned about the condition of these systems, you can hire a separate company to come out and do an inspection.

Mold and pest inspection. A home inspector will not identify mold or pest infestation during a home inspection. This is because these are not always easy to spot and can often be hidden behind walls or in other areas of the home. Another reason most home inspectors do not specifically call out mold or pests is because they often require a specialist to identify them. Your home inspector might note the presence of a “mold-like substance” or similar wording – if this comes up on your report, it’s smart to bring in a specialized mold inspection professional.

Cosmetic aspects. A home inspector will not comment on cosmetic aspects like paint colors, wallpaper, flooring, or decor. This is because these are personal preferences that can be easily changed by the home buyer. However, a home inspector may point these elements out if they indicate a potential issue with the home. For example, peeling paint may point to a moisture problem or a warped floor might indicate water damage or foundation issues.

Anything behind walls. A home inspection is a visual inspection of the home, so it is highly unlikely that a home inspector will comment on anything behind the walls. This includes plumbing pipes, electrical components, and the inside of a chimney or fireplace. What a home inspector can help you understand is what you can expect in terms of electrical and plumbing elements based on the age and construction of the rest of the home. That’s why it’s particularly important to hire a Milwaukee historic home inspector if you’re buying a home built before the 1970s. We know the common pitfalls and idiosyncrasies present in historic homes and can help you understand what to expect.

Building code considerations. If the home you’re purchasing or selling is not up to code, the home inspector is not required to comment on it. They may point out elements that aren’t up to code, but this is not their area of expertise. When buying or selling a historic home, it’s smart to bring in a building inspector who can speak to building code to ensure everything is up to snuff.

When you are buying a home, it is important to know what is not included in a home inspection. A home inspector will check many different aspects of the property, but there are some things they will not look at. For example, most home inspectors will not inspect the sewer line or septic system. They also will not identify mold or pest infestation, comment on cosmetic aspects, or evaluate any warranties that may be in place. It is important to be aware of these limitations when you are hiring a home inspector in Milwaukee.

At Towne & Country Building Inspectors, we offer a variety of services to help you better understand your home. Learn more about our Milwaukee home inspection and historic home inspection services, as well as our Wisconsin commercial property inspections, then contact us today to schedule your service. We cannot wait to talk to you!