When purchasing a new home, having a qualified inspector on-site is necessary to ensure your family’s safety and comfort. It’s also important to understand what a home inspection entails and what aspects of the property will be covered during their evaluation. One common question during this process is whether home inspectors check appliances. The answer is generally yes, but the extent and thoroughness of the inspection can vary and depend on the inspector, their guidelines, and the specific appliances in question.
The Home Inspector’s Role
A home inspector is a trained professional who examines a property to identify potential issues or necessary repairs. They adhere to standards set by professional organizations like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), and state-specific licensing boards. These organizations and various others responsible for training and licensing mandate a comprehensive investigation of the entire property.
Do Home Inspectors Check Appliances?
The standards above and guidelines mandate that inspectors check any major, built-in appliances on the property, including the following.
- Kitchen Appliances: Inspectors will ensure that the stove, oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, garbage disposal, and microwave (if included in the sale) power on and function correctly. They’ll also examine the range hood, ensuring that it vents air outside rather than recirculating it within the kitchen if it’s an external-venting model.
- HVAC Systems: They’ll check that all heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are operational and in good condition. This includes checking the thermostat, furnace, air conditioner, and heat pump.
- Water Heaters: Your inspector will ensure it heats water adequately and is free of obvious issues, such as leaks or signs of wear and tear.
Do Home Inspectors Check Washers and Dryers?
The official ASHI Standard of Practice mentions little about washer and dryer units, and most services typically do not require inspecting them. While your inspector may check the dryer’s exhaust and the electric/water connection from these appliances to the home, washers, and dryers are outside the inspector’s expertise, and there is limited time to examine the property. Furthermore, in many cases, these units are considered personal property and may be taken with the previous owners once the sale is complete.
While this is true for most inspectors, it’s always a good idea to ask anyway! Your inspector may be able to provide a very bare-bones examination of the washer and dryer units, making sure they work correctly and that their conditions pose no obvious hazards. For instance, a frayed wire that the inspector can quickly point out might be present, which pertains to the appliance’s functionality as well as the safety of occupants. They definitely won’t test for how well the units work, as experimenting with loads and water pressure is a liability that needs the time and attention of a designated service technician.
Understanding what a home inspection covers is essential when buying a new home. Home inspectors focus on major built-in appliances, HVAC systems, and water heaters, giving you a comprehensive property overview. While they may not thoroughly assess washer and dryer units, your active involvement in the inspection process can address specific concerns and ensure a complete evaluation. By requesting maintenance records for major systems and appliances from the seller and reviewing them alongside the inspection report, you gain valuable insights into past repairs and potential future issues, strengthening your position in the home-buying process.
Also, familiarize yourself with the basic operation and maintenance of key systems in your new home. This knowledge can help you spot problems early and address them before they escalate. By staying informed and prepared, you can enjoy greater peace of mind and make the most of your new home!
At Kissee Inspection Services, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive and reliable home inspections that go beyond the basics, all at a price you can afford! We offer a wide range of services tailored to fit your needs and work around your schedule so you can kick back your feet and let us do the heavy lifting. Call or text us at (469) 438-8509 to learn more about our services and get a free quote today!
