As he always says, “If I can’t see it, I can’t say it!” Mark Lorusso, a Nevada Certified Inspector of Structures is only allowed to report what he can see. The law is very specific, NRS 645D states that it is a “visual inspection”. The following is a general description of what is inspected. The inspection reports only the findings of the day and time of the inspection.
Grounds
Inspection of the property surrounding the structure includes Fences, Retaining Walls, Driveways and Sidewalks. There is an evaluation of the Grading and Drainage of the property. Primarily what is considered is the potential for water damage to both the Interior and Exterior of the Structure including the Sidewalks and Driveways. The inspection does not include any plant materials, decorations or systems that are part of the landscaping. Sprinkler systems are excluded and should be checked out by a licensed contractor.
Roof
Considering, there are many different roofing styles and materials, the inspector must be adequately skilled to evaluate the condition of the Roofing Materials, Flashings, Gutters, Downspouts and Venting. The inspector will accesses the roof with a ladder to look for missing, loose or damaged Shingles. This is called “walking the roof”, but it is never done on tile roofing and only when weather conditions allow safe access.
Regarding the question of drones, this inspection company does not use drones. Drones are not diagnostic equipment, they can not provide the same quality inspection you can get with the eye of an experienced inspector. Yes, it can take pictures of areas that possibly can not be seen, but keep in mind the inspector is only seeing a picture of the roof, not the roof itself. At this time, there is still nothing better than the human eye!
If there is concern about the condition of the roof that can not be seen, the inspector will recommend further evaluation of a licensed roofing contractor.
Exterior
The inspection includes Walls, Windows, Doors, Porches, Chimneys, Eaves, Patios, Decks, Steps, Railings, and Foundations. The exterior perimeter of the Foundation is inspected for cracks and irregularities. What exists under any exterior finishing, such as stucco cannot be reported as it cannot be seen. All other elements are inspected to verify they function as intended.
Interior
The interior inspection of the house includes the Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Stairs, Windows, Doors, Fireplaces, Cooktops, Ovens and Built-in Microwaves. The inspector looks for imperfections such as bowing or buckling, stains and cracks in the Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Windows, and Doors. All mechanical elements must be operational.
Utilities
Plumbing inspections include both systems and components, the Meter at the street, Shut Off Valves, Water Supply Lines, Waste Systems and Drains, Vents, Toilets, Sinks, Faucets, Tubs, Showers, Hose Bibbs, Water Heaters, and Garbage Disposers. The entire system is inspected for leaks, rust, erosion, and function.
Electrical inspections also include both the systems and the components, the Electrical Service to the property including the Main and Sub Electrical Panels, Visible Wiring, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, and Outlets.
Gas inspections include the Meter, Visible Gas Lines, Appliance Hooks Ups and Shut Off Valves. All are inspected for damage and function. If a gas leak is suspected Southwest Gas is contacted immediately.
Heating and Air Conditioning
Heating and Air Conditioning can be provided by a variety of choices. Among those are the standard Forced Air Furnace, both Gas and Electric, Heat Pump, and Hot Water Boiler, Electric Air Conditioner, and Evaporative Cooler. Included in the inspection are identifying the Power Source and confirming the HVAC Unit is functioning. All testing considers outside temperatures at the time of inspection.
Pool and Spa
The systems and components of the Pool and Spa include Pumps, Valves, Heaters, Filters, exposed Plumbing Lines and the visible physical condition of the Pool Body, and Decking.
Commercial inspections cover many of the same areas of a residential inspection. The commercial inspections includes parking and basic ADA compliance. Exclusions are noted in the contract. If you have a specific question please call the office.
