Adding onto your home can be exciting, offering increased space and functionality. However, before you get the construction underway, it’s important that you understand what home inspectors look for when inspecting home additions so you can ensure the new space meets safety and code standards. Today, we’ll share seven things inspectors prioritize when evaluating home additions.
A Note About Home Addition Inspection Requirements
While every municipality has different requirements regarding home improvement projects and building permits, home additions may require multiple inspections during and after construction by a city or county inspector. These government-assigned inspectors don’t always do the most thorough of walk-throughs and therefore may not spend the necessary amount of time in your home to identify all the issues. Hiring a private inspector can give you better peace of mind.
1. Structural Integrity
An inspector’s primary concern is typically the addition’s structural integrity. They’ll assess whether the new structure is properly supported, including the foundation, walls, roof, and connections to the existing home. Any signs of sagging, settling, or structural deficiencies are scrutinized, as safety and stability are of the utmost importance.
2. Building Codes Compliance
Inspectors verify that a home addition complies with local building codes and regulations. This includes adherence to zoning laws, setback requirements, maximum height restrictions, and safety standards. Non-compliance can result in costly fines or the need for corrective action, so it’s in your best interest to adhere to regulatory guidelines from the outset.
3. Electrical and Plumbing Systems
When inspecting home additions, inspectors also examine the electrical and plumbing systems to check that they meet safety standards and are properly installed. This includes checking for adequate wiring, outlets, and lighting fixtures, as well as assessing the integrity of plumbing connections, pipes, and fixtures. Any deficiencies or code violations are noted for correction.
4. HVAC Integration
If a home addition includes heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, inspectors assess their installation and integration with the existing HVAC system. Proper sizing, ductwork connections, and ventilation are crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and comfort. Inspectors also check that HVAC installations meet efficiency standards and don’t pose any safety risks.
5. Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Inspectors evaluate the insulation and energy efficiency of home additions to make sure it meets modern standards for thermal performance and energy conservation. Proper insulation installation, weather sealing, and energy-efficient windows and doors contribute to a comfortable and energy-efficient living space.
6. Fire Safety Measures
Of course, confirming that proper fire safety measures are in place—including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and proper egress routes—is also critical when inspecting home additions.
7. Overall Quality and Workmanship
Lastly, know that inspectors assess the overall quality and workmanship of the addition during their inspection. They look for signs of poor construction, shortcuts, or substandard materials. Attention to detail, precision in execution, and adherence to industry best practices are indicators of a well-built addition that will stand the test of time.
Even if your city or town doesn’t necessarily require you to hire your own inspector for an addition, you can see why it’s still a good idea to call in the professionals—like ours at Homeinex— to do their due diligence. And, now that you know what an inspector looks for when inspecting home additions, you can confidently go forward with construction, ensuring it’s executed with safety, quality, and compliance in mind. Whether you’re planning a home addition or require a comprehensive inspection, get in touch with us.