The 12 Types Of Home Inspections In Virginia

Thinking about getting a home inspection but not sure which kind you actually need? 

You’re not alone. There are a bunch of different types out there – some cover the whole house, others focus on specific stuff like the roof, plumbing, or even things like mold or radon.

In this post, we’ll give you a rundown of the most common types of home inspections.

#1. General Home Inspections

A general home inspection is the most common type of home inspection, and it will give you a snapshot of the home’s overall condition. 

An inspector looks at all the major systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and structure) to make sure everything is functioning properly. Afterward, they’ll give you a report about what’s in good shape and what might need fixing.

This inspection doesn’t go super deep into every little thing, but it’s a great starting point. 

If the house passes this inspection, you’ll know it’s generally in good shape. If it doesn’t, the inspector will give you a list of repairs that might be needed.

Also Read: Things That Fail A Home Inspection

#2. Roof Inspections

When was the last time you looked at your roof? For most of us, it’s been ages.

A roof inspection checks out the condition of the roof and how much life it has left.

Inspectors look at shingles, flashing, gutters, downspouts, and anything else connected to the roof. They’re checking for damage, wear and tear, moss, drainage issues, and spots where water might sneak in.

This inspection is especially helpful if the roof is older, or if you’ve noticed signs like ceiling stains or missing shingles.

#3. Pest Inspections

You’d be surprised at how many homes are infested with pests like termites or ants. 

A pest inspection looks for signs of these critters, which might not be visible at first glance. Termites, for example, can silently eat away at the structure of the house, weakening the foundation over time.

The inspector will check for damage or droppings that indicate pests have moved in. 

If you find out you’ve got a pest problem, you can address it early before it gets worse. No one wants to deal with an infestation after they’ve already moved in!

#4. Mold Inspections

Mold can be a quiet little menace. It grows in damp, dark areas (like the basement and under sinks), and it can spread fast if the moisture issue sticks around. 

A mold inspection helps catch it before it takes over.

The inspector will look for visible mold, of course, but they’re also hunting for the stuff you can’t see. That includes checking for musty smells, water damage, and high humidity spots. 

Some inspectors use moisture meters or thermal cameras to find damp areas behind walls. Others take air samples to test spore levels.

If the inspection turns up mold, you’ll want to take care of it ASAP.

Also Read: How Accurate Are Air Mold Tests?

#5. Radon Inspections

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can be seriously dangerous. 

It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock, and it can seep into homes through cracks in foundations and other openings.

Radon inspections involve setting out a monitor, usually for 2 to 4 days. That device checks the radon levels in the home. If the number comes back too high, you might need a radon mitigation system, which usually just means improving ventilation or sealing up entry points.

Testing is especially common during home sales, but honestly, every homeowner should do it at least once.

It’s easy, affordable, and it could seriously protect your health.

#6. Sewer Or Septic Inspections

Out of sight, out of mind… until your tub backs up or your yard starts smelling.

That’s where sewer or septic inspections come in.

If your house is connected to city sewer lines, a sewer inspection involves running a camera through the pipes to check for blockages, cracks, or other issues.

If the home has a septic system, the inspection involves popping the lid off the tank and checking for signs of overflow, leaks, or slow drainage in the drain field.

Sewer and septic problems can be expensive to fix and really unpleasant to live with, so getting an inspection can help you avoid buying a home with expensive plumbing surprises!

Also Read: Sewer Line Camera Inspection Costs

#7. HVAC inspections

The heating and cooling system is easy to forget – until it stops working. 

An HVAC inspection gives you a heads-up before that happens.

The inspector will test both the heating and AC units to see how well they’re running. They’ll look at the furnace, check refrigerant levels, test airflow through the vents, inspect ductwork for leaks, and make sure the thermostat is doing its job.

If the system’s older, they might also check for things like rust, corrosion, or clogged filters. 

An efficient HVAC system can save you money on energy bills, so it’s about the cost, too.

#8. Foundation Inspections

The foundation is literally what holds everything up. If there’s a problem there, it can cause a domino effect throughout the entire house.

Foundation inspections take a close look at all that. 

The inspector checks for cracks in walls or ceilings, uneven floors, and door frames that don’t sit right. Outside, they’ll walk the perimeter to spot cracks, bulging areas, or signs of settling.

They’ll also check crawl spaces or basements if the house has them. 

If they find something concerning, they may suggest bringing in a structural engineer.

Also Read: How Much Does A Foundation Inspection Cost

#9. Electrical Inspections

Electrical issues can be pretty dangerous.

An electrical inspection looks at your home’s electrical system, including the main panel, wiring, outlets, and fixtures.

The inspector will check if your electrical system meets current safety codes. They’ll look for outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and other potential hazards.

If the system is outdated or there are safety concerns, the inspector will flag them.

If the house has had a lot of upgrades over the years (or if you’re planning a remodel) this kind of inspection can be a lifesaver. Electrical issues are one of the top causes of house fires, so it’s smart to make sure everything’s wired safely.

#10. Plumbing Inspections

A plumbing inspection goes beyond what you’d see in a general home inspection. 

During a plumbing inspection, the inspector checks every faucet, toilet, drain, and visible pipe. They look for leaks, corrosion, water pressure issues, and signs of clogs. In some cases, they might use a camera to inspect the inside of your pipes.

They’ll also take a look at the water heater, check the temperature settings, and see if there’s any buildup or wear.

Plumbing inspections are great before buying a home, but they’re also helpful if you’re dealing with high water bills, strange smells, or water spots you can’t explain.

#11. Lead Paint Inspections

Lead paint is mostly a concern in older homes built before 1978. 

If you have young kids or pregnant women in the house, lead paint can be a serious health risk. 

A lead paint inspection checks for any traces of lead-based paint using special tools (like an XRF analyzer) in places that might be deteriorating, like window sills or door frames.

If lead paint is found, you’ll need to have it removed safely. 

Lead paint that’s in good condition might not be an immediate problem. But if it’s peeling, chipping, or otherwise deteriorating, it should be taken care of.

#12. Asbestos Inspections

Asbestos was used in a ton of building materials up until the late 1970s.

It’s strong, fire-resistant, and good for insulation, but it can cause serious health problems, like lung cancer and mesothelioma, if it’s disturbed and inhaled.

An asbestos inspection identifies materials that might contain asbestos like:

• Ceiling tiles
• Pipe insulation
• Wall plaster
• Vinyl floor tiles

The inspector will collect small samples and send them to a lab for analysis.

If asbestos is found, don’t panic. It only becomes a problem when it’s disturbed. But if you’re planning renovations or repairs, you’ll want to get it professionally removed.

Bottom Line

So, there you have it  – an overview of the different types of home inspections.

Remember, you don’t necessarily need every single type for every home purchase.

Start with a general inspection, then add specific inspections based on what the general inspector finds and what makes sense for your particular situation.

The more you know about your home’s condition, the better off you’ll be.