Real estate lore once featured tales of unforgiving city inspectors; today however, this portrayal could not be further from reality.

Building inspections ensure that construction projects meet code and are safe for residents or employees to occupy when completed. Inspections may be conducted before, during, and post construction to check on various aspects.
Exterior

Building inspections are an integral component of the building process. They ensure construction meets industry standards, saving both builders and buyers considerable costs over time. Building inspections may take place before, during or after building is complete - as well as randomly to ensure builders adhere to regulations.

Framing inspections ensure that door and window egress locations are correct, the frame is structurally sound and that plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical wiring systems are functioning. They act like an x-ray of your building's interior to highlight problems that require further evaluation. An inspector will look at exterior walls, roof structures and attic structures as well as plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical wiring to complete this evaluation process.
Interior

Building inspectors must inspect both the interior and exterior of structures they inspect; this involves checking on home systems such as plumbing or HVAC units and checking how much ductwork exists within.

An inspection for an average-sized home generally takes one or two hours; however, if it involves older properties needing major repair work it could take longer. A quality inspector will take great care inspecting each aspect of the building in detail, providing clear reports with photographs for clarity if necessary and offering follow up advice or assistance when needed.
Foundation

Inspectors examine how a building's foundation was constructed. They inspect for cracks or other forms of damage that can prove costly for its owner.

Windows and doors must open and close correctly to ensure fire safety; yet many don't think about this until faced with an emergency situation.

Whenever an inspector detects anything that doesn't meet safety standards, construction stops until corrections have been made. Violations or stop-work orders may even be issued if necessary to ensure the building complies with local building codes before being opened for public occupancy.
Plumbing

As is common with construction projects, numerous inspections must be conducted prior to, during, and post construction in order to ensure compliance with regulations and codes. These checks can occur both prior and after building construction takes place to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Inspectors specialize in inspecting plumbing and electrical systems of buildings. In addition, they conduct roof inspections as well as HVAC system checks. With knowledge of relevant codes and regulations at their fingertips, these inspectors use this knowledge to ensure the finished product meets standards set forth.

Some projects only need one inspection, such as water heater replacements, AC replacements and some electrical work. When inspecting these projects, inspectors are usually familiar with their contractors' work and so inspection times are typically brief.
Electrical

If your project requires a permit, such as adding an addition or major remodeling, inspections will be performed on electrical systems to ensure they comply with applicable codes and are done safely.

Inspectors will examine outlet (receptacle) and switch heights to ensure they comply with local code requirements, and ensure electrical boxes can accommodate the number of wire conductors and devices contained within.

Inspectors will inspect how cables and wires are clamped within their boxes, to eproperty inspection melbournensure there is enough space available for trimming or attaching replacement devices in the future.
Roof

Roof inspections include close-in, sheathing and exterior shear inspections that must be conducted prior to installing roof covering and shear walls. These checks verify nailing patterns as well as check underlayment materials such as strapping material and tie down straps/holdowns for any problems or irregularities.

Other inspections necessary are wood framing inspection, radon test and rough plumbing/gas tests - these must be conducted prior to scheduling a framing, drywall and final inspections.