When purchasing a home, you will likely need to conduct a home inspection of the property’s interior and exterior condition before closing. A licensed home inspector will thoroughly check the home for any items that could present problems. Sometimes, other inspections are needed to further investigate issues. Here are some common additional home inspections and why you may need them:

Chimney inspection  – This inspection assesses whether the chimney and fireplace are venting properly and in safe working order. A chimney inspection is needed before the fireplace is used, so it is often a good idea to take care of it at the time of purchase.

Roof inspection  – Roof inspectors examine roofs and ceilings for leaks, damage, mold, rotting wood and more. If the house you are purchasing has a roof that is 20-25 years old or shows visible signs of damage, you may want to consider a roof inspection.

Pest, termite and rodent inspections  – During any type of pest inspection, the inspector checks the interior and exterior of the property for signs of infestation or damage. They may also flag areas that could become attractive to pests in the future. Your real estate agent should be able to advise on whether you need a pest inspection based on the area, age and condition of the home.

Radon inspection  – Studies have shown that almost one out of every 15 homes has elevated radon levels, which can increase cancer risks. While sellers can test for radon themselves using a store-bought kit, many buyers choose to have radon levels professionally tested.

Electrical inspection  – An electrical inspector will do a thorough check of all of the electrical wiring inside and around the home. The goal is to disclose any issues that could pose risk. It is recommended to have an electrical inspection conducted if you are purchasing a home that was previously owned, especially if it is over 40 years old or has undergone major renovations.

HVAC inspection  – HVAC inspectors determine how well the heating and cooling systems in the home are maintained. These inspectors then disclose any issues that could present a problem to the buyer. An HVAC inspection is recommended by the general home inspector, depending on their findings.

Mold inspection  – Mold inspectors visually assess the house for mold and test surfaces and air. If your general home inspector picks up any mold during their inspection, it is a good idea to have the home inspected further for mold issues.

Plumbing inspection  – A plumbing inspector will check all issues in the home related to plumbing and water systems. This kind of inspector confirms everything is up to code and working and draining properly. If you notice issues in the home such as leaks, slow drains or low water pressure, a plumbing inspection might be needed.

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