During a home inspection, inspectors go over a home from top to bottom and from inside and out. This meticulous assessment process is essential to keep you, the potential new homeowner, safe.
One of the places where inspectors take their time to survey is the basement. Why are basement inspections necessary, and what do inspectors look for in the basement? Keep reading to learn more.
Why Are Basement Inspections Important?
The basement is the section of the home that is partly or fully underground. It can house a cellar, an entertainment room, a guest room, an office, and so much more. Aside from being a versatile room, the basement is a key element to the house’s structural integrity.
Basement foundations are architectural structures that support the upper floors of the house. They are considered the deepest major foundation type and are typically seven feet high.
Although more and more people are considering a slab-on-grade foundation, it does not have the storage space and living space possibility that a basement foundation has. Additionally, a basement foundation does not encase gas and water pipes that run under the house in concrete.
What Do Home Inspectors Look for in Basement Inspections?
Property inspections offer non-destructive home inspections. It means that they will not slice through drywalls or chip away at concrete to check on the pipes and wires.
Since inspections are non-destructive, inspectors rely on a few tools, their basic human senses, and the knowledge that they have gathered in their years of experience. Using all these things, below are some of the factors they will be looking for in a basement inspection:
Signs of Flooding
This is why inspectors look for signs of water damage in the wall or floors. Water damage in these areas means that the basement has been subjected to flooding.
Moisture
Inspectors are also vigilant in looking for sources of moisture in the basement. When there is moisture in a dark and cold area of the home, mold and mildew may grow. Both problems are not aesthetically pleasing or good for your health, for that matter.
Mold
Mold in a home can be extremely dangerous to people’s health. For this reason, real estate inspectors are vigilant in looking for signs of mold. If they cannot see mold or mildew (early stages of mold) colonies but see moisture on walls and observe that the room smells musty, they may recommend having a professional mold inspector look at the home.
Basement Doors and Windows
As a flood-prone room, constant exposure to a damp environment can ruin basement wood window frames, doors, door frames, and more. Property inspectors will note any irregularities in the window and door structures. However, they will not consider window and door style choices and aesthetic damages.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a white residual deposit that can be taken as a sign of a water leak. Aside from showing possible sources of leaks, efflorescence can also indicate cracks in the foundation that allow water from the outside to seep through.
Foundation Cracks
Cracks in the home’s foundation can be potentially dangerous. Hairline and non-structural cracks are minor aesthetic blemishes on the walls or floors. However, if there are substantial structural cracks, the whole house may be unsafe to live in without the appropriate repairs. For this reason, inspectors keep an eye out for cracks in the basement and in the exterior basement retaining walls.
Conclusion
Home inspectors pay close attention to a home’s basement because it offers structural support. If the basement’s structure is compromised, the entire house may be in danger.
If you are looking for some of the best licensed home inspectors in Birmingham, AL, Let’s Do It Home Inspections is at your service. We offer a wide range of professional inspection solutions, including property inspections, mold inspections, 203k consultations, FHA fee inspections, and more. Get a certified ASHI member to inspect your potential home. Call us today!
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