How do home inspectors check for water damage?

1/6/2023 (Permalink)

Specialized equipment used to dry water damage on floors and baseboards

Water damage can be expensive and dangerous. As a homeowner, it’s important to take steps to prevent it and detect it early. A home inspector is trained to look for potential water damage and inspect for any existing water damage during their evaluation of the property. But how do home inspectors check for water damage? Let’s break it down.

Inspecting the Exterior of the Property 

The first step in checking for water damage is to inspect the exterior of the property. To do this, home inspectors will look for signs of standing water, especially near foundations or slabs. They will also check gutters, downspouts, and other drainage systems to ensure that they are not clogged or in need of repair. This inspection includes looking at the grade around the foundation (the slope) to make sure rainwater is directed away from the house – rather than toward it. 

Inspecting Inside the Home 

Once inside, a home inspector will use a variety of tools to check for water damage – such as infrared cameras and moisture meters. 

Infrared cameras measure differences in temperature, which can help identify areas where moisture is present behind walls or under floors. Moisture meters measure electrical resistance in surfaces like drywall. If there is excessive moisture present, then this tool will indicate that there may be an issue with water intrusion somewhere in the house (even if outwardly there are no visible signs of damage yet).  

Finally, home inspectors will visually inspect all rooms and crawl spaces for any signs of current or past flooding; these include stains on walls/floors/ceilings, warped wood, moldy smells, etc. 

Home Inspectors Check Appliances & Plumbing Fixtures

Furthermore, home inspectors will also investigate plumbing fixtures (such as sinks, toilets), HVAC systems (for potential condensation issues), and appliances (especially washing machines) that could potentially lead to issues with flooding or other water-related problems in your home. These inspections are critical because even small leaks – if left unchecked – can cause major damage over time!  

Water damage can be costly but catching it early on can save you time and money down the road! That’s why it’s important to have your property inspected by a certified professional who knows how to look for signs of potential water damage both inside and outside your home. With their expertise in using special tools (like infrared cameras and moisture meters) along with their knowledge about plumbing fixtures, HVAC systems, and appliances, home inspectors can be an invaluable resource.