Structural
Objective: Inspecting the structure of the home is an important step in the home inspection process. The general usefulness of the whole home depends on how sound its structure is. In the extreme cases, the safety of the occupants is at risk. The home inspector observes all those aspects of the home’s structure that are readily available for inspection, describes the type of construction and the material used in the structural components, and reports any problems or defects found.
Identify and describe the type of footings and foundations, sills, columns, beams, joists, sub-flooring, concrete floor slabs, introduction to wall systems, solid masonry walls, wood frame walls, masonry veneer walls, arches and lintels, an overview of the roof structure, rafters, roof joists, and ceiling joists, collar ties, knee walls and purlins, trusses, wood “I” joists, and roof sheathing.
Understand common defect in each.
Many illustrations are used to discuss several types of foundations and the different materials used to build them over the years. Soil conditions and characteristics effecting foundations are reviewed and displayed in the illustrations. Foundation failures due to poor materials and poor soil preparation will be illustrated. Examples of cracks both typical and structural will be reviewed in detail. Different repair methods are considered. Items that will required a licensed engineer will be discussed in length.
Appropriate reporting methods will be covered and examples supplied.
Garage and Carport Inspection
Particular focus on attached garage/carport inspections is a key for good inspections. Students learn to describe type of garage structures, whether attached or detached. Describe the condition of the vehicle door(s). Determine the functionality of door openers. Evaluate a vehicle door’s automatic reverse and safety features. Identify and describe the type of flooring. Describe the walls, windows, and ceiling. Understand how to recognize a separation wall. Learn to evaluate a door to living space. Identify and describe garage ventilation system. Determine the level and sources of moisture intrusion. Learn signs of mildew. Identify GFCI and non-GFCI electrical outlets.
Appropriate reporting methods are discussed and examples supplied.
Virtually every space within the living area is inspected: the walls, ceiling, floors, heat sources, windows, doors, attic, basement and crawl spaces. Each one is evaluated and discussed as related to inspecting standards and accessibility. Typical cracks, settlement, sagging and cosmetic items are separated from conditions which could be a structural deficiency that a licensed professional would have to further evaluate.
Types of windows, doors, flooring, stairs, and handrails are identified and illustrated for visual inspecting data. Floor samples will be available for hands on training.
Identify the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Identify and describe the type of floors. Identify and describe the type of interior walls. Describe the type and condition of ceilings. Learn to evaluate different types of entry doors. Learn to evaluate different types of interior doors. Identify properly installed stairs and railings. Describe the type and condition of window. Learn where to look for moisture and mildew. Understand how to evaluate the fireplace.
Identify proper tools for interior inspecting. Samples will be available for training purposes.
Appropriate reporting methods discussed and examples supplied.
Bathroom and Kitchen Inspection
Particular attention in interior inspections is given to baths and kitchens. Students are shown how to identify and describe the condition of the toilets. Identify and describe the condition of the sinks. Understand how to recognize proper ventilation. Identify and describe the condition of the bathtubs. Describe the type and condition of the shower walls. Identify and describe the condition of the flooring. Identify the GFCI and non-GFCI electrical outlets. Determine the level of moisture and mildew.
PLI employs an extensive lab of equipment types and hands-on opportunities in presenting these materials (see photos).
Appropriate reporting methods discussed and examples supplied.