By Ryan Martin - Thumb Home Inspection
Home Safety: Key Aspects Evaluated by Home Inspectors
For first-time homebuyers, understanding the safety of a prospective property is paramount. However, the multifaceted nature of home safety inspections doesn't lend itself to a simplistic categorization. Rather, with evolving building science and technology, inspectors continually expand their areas of scrutiny. As members of InterNACHI, our principal duty is to identify and warn about safety concerns. Here is a pivotal extract from the InterNACHI Code of Ethics:
InterNACHI's Commitment to Public Safety
InterNACHI members pledge not to disclose inspection information to third parties unless it pertains to safety concerns, or if mandated by legal requirements, without acquiring prior written approval from the client.
Primary Safety Concerns in Homes
Though countless factors affect a home's safety, we spotlight some prevalent concerns below:
Electrical Complications
Electrical malfunctions can span numerous domains within a household. Frequently encountered issues include:
Ungrounded Receptacles: These pose risks, especially with malfunctioning devices.
Antiquated Wiring Systems: Homes built before 1973 often have 'knob and tube' wiring, which may not be up to modern safety standards.
Overloaded Circuit Breakers: Often, these stem from unprofessional installations by previous homeowners.
Absent or Inadequate GFCI Protection: Especially crucial in spaces where water sources and electricity coincide—kitchens, bathrooms, utility areas, and garages.
Fire Detection and Prevention
Fire-related fatalities rank third in home deaths annually in the US. Regrettably, a staggering 65% occur in residences lacking functional smoke detectors. While many believe carbon monoxide detectors are solely for basements, it's crucial to install them on each level. HVAC systems can inadvertently disperse carbon monoxide throughout a home.
The Invisible Threat: Radon Gas
Invisible and undetectable by odor, radon gas is a pervasive concern, especially in regions like Michigan where one in every four homes exhibits elevated levels. Touted as a silent, gradual menace, radon parallels smoking in terms of its lung cancer risk. The most efficacious radon assessment involves continuous monitoring for a minimum duration of 48 hours.
Concluding Thoughts
While the concerns highlighted above constitute just a fragment of a home inspector's comprehensive evaluation, they underscore the indispensable role of such assessments. Each homebuyer's unique needs and concerns merit individual attention. Let's champion the cause of safer homes and communities.udly inspecting homes in Saint Clair County, Sanilac County, Macomb County, Lapeer County, Oakland County, And surrounding Areas in South East Michigan.