There are many different inspections but only two distinct types: those of generalists, and those of specialists. Most property inspectors are “generalists” and conduct their inspections in accordance with industry standards, which means that they are not specialists but have sufficient knowledge of building materials and construction practices to alert their clients to the need for an evaluation by a specialist when necessary. Therefore, if you’ve had your home inspected it’s very important that you understand the difference and have reasonable expectations about the service you contracted for or you may be disappointed. The most common specialist inspections are made by electricians, plumbers, roofing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors, all of whom not only possess knowledge appropriate to their trades but perform more comprehensive inspections than generalists.
Houses are rarely perfect, even those that are brand new. In fact, the chance of a house being perfect in every respect is slim. The older a house the greater likelihood of it having defects and deficiencies, not only because of the wear and tear that occurs through time but because of the continuous advances that are made in materials and technology. Therefore, you should not anticipate that the inspection of your house was or will be technically exhaustive. As indicated earlier, your inspector is a generalist who performs inspections in accordance with standards that are not only limited in scope but essentially visual.
Many household problems go undetected, because generalists are only able to identify problems that are revealed by their senses, and their inspections do not involve dismantling components, destructive testing, or the use of specialized instruments. Therefore, that they cannot identify problems that they cannot see, such as those concealed within walls, below floors, and above ceilings. Termite inspectors are specialists, and commonly tap or probe surfaces in an attempt to reveal damage or activity, but that too has obvious limitations. However, sophisticated technological advances in infrared technology enable specialists to detect things that are beyond the range of the senses, such as energy loss, electrical faults, or concealed moisture that could result in mold. This is because everything with a temperature above zero emits heat, even ice, which can be recorded, documented, and transmitted via an infrared camera. Of course, thermal imaging is a specialized inspection that is beyond the scope of the average generalist.
Specialist inspections cost more, but the savings can be significant when measured in terms of health and safety and not simply in money spent. Health is priceless, and all consumers need to understand the limitations of a generalist inspection and appreciate the added value of specialist inspections. In fact, specialist inspections are essential to establish the presence of most environmental contaminants, such as radon, mold, asbestos, lead-based paint, and are a prudent investment in health and welfare.