5 Specialty Inspections for Virginia Property Owners
Virginia property owners take advantage of residential and commercial building inspections for a variety of reasons. Buying, listing, or investing in property all spark the need to ensure the structure is sound. However, specialty inspections exist that are essential to make this determination but aren’t included in general inspections. Burgess Inspections performs all types of inspections, including general and specialty, and this article explains five specific types of specialties.
1. Termite
Termites flourish with moisture, and they love wood! Of course, Richmond has plenty of both. Therefore, the environment is quite hospitable to termite populations.
Unfortunately, if you see the following signs, then chances are you already have a rampant infestation:
- Swarms of termites
- Shed wings laying in piles
- Termite excrement
- Wood remnants resembling sawdust
Do yourself a favor and get a termite inspection, in addition to the general home inspection when you purchase a new home.
2. Mold
While you may consider some types of mold as a nuisance, other types present health hazards. Like termites, mold proliferates in moist areas. Unfortunately, damp, dark basements, crawlspaces, and similar areas are common locations. Still, mold can grow on just about anything, including furniture, books, and even clothing. Either way, mold contributes to poor indoor air quality, which is why a mold inspection is so important.
3. Radon
Radon is odorless, which contributes to its danger. The gas seeps up through cracks in the ground and structures’ foundations. Sadly, the gas causes lung cancer and other issues in humans. In fact, it’s the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Accordingly, protect yourself and your loved ones by scheduling a radon inspection.
4. Stucco
Stucco is a mixture made of cement, water, and lime. The material provides durability and acts as a powerful insulator for your home. In fact, some stucco structures date back thousands of years.
Stucco can have a couple of downsides. First, cracks allow moisture inside where it has no opportunity to escape. As you’ve already learned, moisture causes numerous structural risks and issues. Next, misapplied stucco cracks and settles, which can degrade structural integrity.
5. Sewer
Sewer lines aren’t included in general home inspections. Moreover, they’re often not covered under the homeowner’s insurance policy. Several factors contribute to the risk of sewer line damage, such as old pipes, leaks, critters chewing and nesting in pipes, tree branches growing through the lines, and more. We recommend getting a sewer line inspection if you’ve never had one, or if you think there’s a problem.
Schedule a Specialty Inspection
Hopefully, you’ve learned about several types of specialty inspections that are in addition to general home inspections. Each of these can be added to a general inspection or requested as standalone services. Call Burgess Inspections at
(844) 804-9219 to schedule service, or request a quote online if you live in Richmond or the surrounding area.