The attic is one of the main areas that the home inspector will examine. While inspecting the attic there are five parts of the attic that the home inspector will evaluate.

1. Attic Access – The attic access location would be located by the home inspector. Before accessing the attic, the home inspector will document the condition of the access door and if there is an attic ladder. The home inspector will also determine if the ladder is safe and if the feet sit firmly on the floor.

2. Insulation – Inside the attic the home inspector will document the kind of insulation present and the approximate depth of the insulation. Insulation comes in various forms, the two most popular being roll fiberglass or blown insulation. The home inspector will also determine if the insulation is relatively even or if bare spots exist. Covered attic areas will be documented as not visible.

Ventilation – Most attics will have a two ventilation points. The types of ventilation points are soffit, gable, ridge, and roof vents. Below is an explanation of the vent types.

Soffit vents are found under the eaves of the home. These vents should be free of insulation to prevent blockage. Baffles should be installed to maintain the free space between the vent and the insulation.

Gable vents are placed inside the exterior wall directly under the eaves on the gable roof. Screens are installed to prevent any birds or bats from nesting inside the attic.

Ridge vents are located across the top of the roof above the ridge beam. These are usually found on hip style roofs where no gable is present.

Roof vents or fans are put in the roof sheathing in holes cut between the rafters. These vents are often installed on the rear of the house for cosmetic purposes.

The two vent sources ought to be from two opposite origins. For instance, gable roofs have both gable and soffit vents. Where hip roofs will have ridge and soffit vents. Elaborate roof formations will possess multiple vent opening.

4. Structure – The home inspector will analyze the framework and roof underlayment to make certain they’re installed right and have no broken, cut or missing framework.

5. Roof Leaks – The home inspector will analyze the vents and roof penetrations for evidence of roof leaks such as water staining and rotted wood.

The home inspector is not required to inspect any area where the head room is less than three feet high. The home inspector is not required to inspect any areas where hazardous material is present such as mold.

Hubert Miles is a South Carolina Home Inspector and the owner of Patriot Home Inspections. If you are searching for a Charleston Home Inspector see what Patriot Home Inspections can offer you.

categories: real estate,home,house,property,land,inspection,finance,business,home inspection,home inspector