What does the home inspector look for in attic crawlspaces?
Your At Home Inspections, Inc. professional looks for stains – evidence of either leakage and/or condensation problems. Accessible roof framing components (e.g., trusses/rafters, sheathing, ridge plates/beams, connections, fasteners, etc.) are checked for defects and damage. (See “What does the home inspector look for in the structure (framing)?) The type, condition, and approximate thickness of the attic insulation are checked. The attic ventilation system is checked. Any nests ( squirrel, bird, or bee) and other pests that the inspector observes in the attic are reported. Most attic finish jobs are done by homeowners or ‘handymen’ (as opposed to licensed contractors) so the home inspector also looks for any evidence of amateur or nonstandard work. Amateur finish work may look unattractive, but generally will not be a safety risk. Amateur electric work is usually a very serious problem. Return to top.