It’s the most wonderful time of the year – until one of your home’s main systems, like electrical or fireplaces, stops working. Even if you recently moved into a new home and an inspection was performed, it never hurts to get an opinion from the local experts when the holidays roll around. Holiday home safety inspections are crucial for your safety and the well-being of your home. Electrical systems, fireplaces, and smoke/CO detectors are among the most important systems to inspect.
What Inspectors Look for in Electrical Inspections
Indoor Electrical Safety
The first things a home inspector will look for in your electrical system are the panels and sub-panels. These holiday home safety inspections include verifying correct wiring and connections, ensuring quality installation, and checking for signs of overheating, such as scorch marks on the panels. They are also responsible for ensuring proper operation of light switches and fixtures, and make note of any exposed or frayed wires, near light fixtures, or switches that are determined to be a safety concern.
Another key component of an electrical system inspection is (primarily in modern homes) checking for GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) and AFCIs (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters). These safety devices are mandatory to protect against electrical fires. GFCIs help prevent electric shock by shutting off power when water comes into contact with an outlet, while AFCIs prevent fires by detecting dangerous electrical arcs in wiring.
Outdoor Electrical Safety
Main and electrical shut-off switches should be clearly labeled and accessible, and your home should not have exposed wires, as they are a significant safety hazard. Home safety inspectors also ensure that surrounding powerlines have plenty of clearance from roofs, windows, and common walkways. Outdoor panels should be safely accessible, and even outdoor outlets should contain proper grounding components and functionality.
How to Conduct Fireplace Inspections
Fireplace inspections include documenting the condition of the inside and outside areas of the chimney and fireplace. These inspections often include utilizing video equipment to inspect the inside of the chimney, which is not easily accessible from the outside.
Your home inspection company will observe the overall integrity of the chimney and look for obstructions that could inhibit airflow. Unfortunately, they could potentially discover excess creosote buildup that can cause fires or problems with the chimney cap, crown, and damper that need immediate attention.
What Home Inspectors Can’t See
A thorough examination of the internal flue lining is generally not included in a typical home inspection, as it is nearly impossible, even with recording equipment, to see inside the entire chimney. These holiday home safety inspections only cover the overall condition of the fireplace, the outward structure of the chimney, and any buildup they discover. Beyond this, homeowners/renters should enlist the help of certified chimney/fireplace repair professionals.
The Importance of Smoke/CO Detector Inspections
Smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are required in modern Virginia rental homes, and your home inspector may require older homes to switch to these modern systems. Typically, landlords are responsible for installing and maintaining operational detectors, including repairing or replacing them if needed. Carbon monoxide alarms are specifically required in rentals if the building has a fuel-burning appliance, such as a water heater, gas furnace, or attached garage. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be very dangerous if undetected.
Personal vs Manufacturer Requirements
Your local or state government may have specific requirements that inspection companies must follow when out on the job. However, some manufacturers of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have slightly different requirements for the products they release. If this is the case, the inspection company must follow the manufacturer’s parameters first, over state-mandated requirements.
How Can DVHI Help You?
Virginia home inspections can be very overwhelming, becoming a headache easily for many homeowners/renters in the Roanoke and surrounding areas. It’s essential to have a company that you trust with your home and family, which is why we are dedicated to making Detail View Home Inspections your go-to crew for all things inspection-related.
Enjoy a stress-free holiday season by scheduling your winter home inspection with us today. Take control of your safety and peace of mind—contact us now to book your holiday home safety inspection appointment and ensure your home is ready for the holidays!