Contractor Isn't an Inspector

When selling your home, be aware that a General contractor is not the same as a Home Inspector with the right credentials. The General contractor may be very knowledgeable when it comes to building new homes or remodeling existing homes. But, that does not mean that the contractor is qualified in inspecting your heating, electrical and plumbing systems for possible repairs before closing on a purchase of a home. You have to ask, is he going to warranty the items in the house that he says will work after they break when you move in? In today's economic climate, will you be able to find the contractor in business in the next year?

Professional Property Inspectors are skilled in property defect evaluation as well as being skilled in construction techniques, building codes, discovwery of damage, deterioration and other building defects. Most home inspectors began their careers in the building trades. Construction knowledge is essential in checking the condition of a home, but a comprehensive inspection is much more involved and far more complex than a mere walk through overview that a contractor might perform.

Home inspectors check the electrical systems by pulling the panel and looking to see if there are any faults in how the box is wired. They test grounding and polarity and other features. They check for code compliance with GFCI breakers. They check the plumbing systems which, in Rio Rancho, can be crucial to the purchase of a home. many homes in Rio Rancho have polybutylene pipes. They check all plumbing fixtures inside and out for leaks. They inspect the heating systems for damage and operability as well as built-in appliances, fireplaces for chimney and firebox cracks, garage door openers and more. They check water heaters, crawl underneath crawl spaces, look for faulty drainage, evaluate the condition of the roof, etc. If you ask for a structural inspection, it is more complex and comprehensive and checks such things as foundation cracks, stucco condition, operation and performance of windows and doors, etc.

One last thought is that when a Home inspector looks at a house, their report is accepted by Home Warranty companies which will warrant certain items of the house such as roofs, plumbing, heating and cooling. Without that report, it is unlikely that you would be able to obtain a warranty. So, keep in mind that hiring a professional inspector who is trained to look for defects is a much better choice than a contractor skilled only at new construction and systems.