Here, you decided to do the foreclosure home inspection by a professional home inspector. Remember that foreclosure home inspection is limited to a visual examination of certain readily accessible systems and components using normal operating controls and opening readily accessible panels in a limited time period.

Foreclosure home inspection is not a code-compliance inspection or disclosure statement. Inspection report may not be used for the issuance of permits or certificate of occupancy.

Purpose of foreclosure home inspection

Foreclosure home inspection is intended to provide you with information about the condition of certain systems and components of the property at the time of inspection. Professional home inspection is not technically exhaustive.

Keep in mind that a professional home inspector is a generalist and is not a licensed engineer or expert in any specific craft or trade.

Exclusions in foreclosure home inspection

As in many professions professional home inspection has it own exclusions and limitations. Home inspection is not:

a warranty or guarantee
an engineering or architectural inspection, and;
technically exhaustive.

A typical home inspection does not cover environmental inspection, termite inspection, and earthquake evaluation. Some other limitations and exclusions are as follows:

Asbestos evaluation for homes built before 1978
Radon gas inspection
Lead inspection
Landscape components (ponds, pottery, fire pits, patio fans, heat lamps, etc.
Detached storages, sheds, and stables
Septic well or tank inspection
Washing and drying machines
Any location or space that pose danger to inspector's life or health

A typical home inspection does not include testing of carbon monoxide, radon, or any other environmental contaminants, lead-based paint, asbestos, water analysis, wood destroying insects/organisms such as termites, dry rot, fungi, and others. We do not provide engineering services, or testing Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS).

Best time for foreclosure home inspection

Foreclosure home inspection shall cover only readily accessible or observable systems or components. Most home inspectors will not move household effect or personal property. The do not take any action that may likely involve risk to persons or property. You should take note of the fact that any water, moisture, leaks, seepage and drainage problems can be observed only during and after a certain amount of rain. It is a good idea to conduct the home inspection right after a heavy rain.