Getting a top-notch home inspections in Scottsdale is vital whether you’re about to sell a home or get a home. Here are a few tips to doing your own property inspection to make sure your property inspector does what’s mandatory, but do not take this as legal services and always seek professional help. These tenets might also differ from state to state.

Prior to meeting with the Phoenix home inspector, you will want to bring copies of the deed, survey, tax liability, leases, and receipts for any major work on the property. These documents will familiarize the property inspector with your property ; likewise, the search of the same will cause the seller to invest time in the negotiation.

1 ) Exterior Inspection
Begin with an exterior assessment. With clipboard and pad, record impressions about bordering property, driveways, walkways, stairways, and handicap access. Note the parking situation, grading, and landscaping. Check the condition of main walls, doors, and windows. Use your binoculars to check the roof, or if possible inspect it close-up. Is it cracking or thick with too many layers? Are the gutters and downspouts in good condition? Water is deleterious, so focus on drainage. Look for limp conditions, peeling paint, cracking mortar, algae and mold.

2) Major Systems Inspection
The basement is one of the most important parts of a property. From there, begin considering the major systems. Inspect the foundation by studying the outside walls for sandy, cracked, or deteriorated mortar. To find air leaks, look for cobwebs-spiders spin them near openings to prey upon insects who enter from outside. Explain this entomology lesson to the vendor as you pick at those energy inefficient cracks. Check the sump for water which indicates leaking. Water draws termites, so use your screwdriver to probe rafters for rotten wood.

3) Living Area Inspection
Next, inspect the living area. Check for an alarm system and smoke detectors. Note the smell-it can affect value. Tally the number of bedrooms and toilets. ( According to FHA, a’bedroom’ isn’t a bedroom if you’ve got to walk through it to access another room. ) Many older houses lack closet space, so make note. Inspect the composition and condition of floors and walls. Test all windows and doors for ease of use. Also check that all electric sockets are grounded ( 3 prong ) and functional ( you can use a cheap electric tester. )

These are just a few points to consider when you get a home inspection done. This does not replace the recommendation of a genuine, qualified and experienced professional. Please seek qualified help when you really need your Scottsdale home inspection done or call 480-415-7977 if you are in the Scottsdale, Arizona area.