Why a Licensed Structural Engineer Makes the Difference
RSE, residential structural engineer, the difference between a structural engineering report and an unlicensed contractor’s evaluation is expertise. With years of study and licensure, a professional engineer can help identify, evaluate, and recommend solutions to homeowners in need of structural or foundation repair.
What to Expect During a Structural Inspection
If you’re buying a new home, one of the most important first steps is to have a thorough and accurate inspection of its structural integrity. Many homes appear structurally sound at the exterior but have severe underlying problems that are not detectable to the untrained eye. During the first phase of an inspection, a structural engineer will come to the property to assess the overall condition of the home and its foundation.
The engineer will check the spacing between beams and joists to ensure it is load-bearing. He or she will also look for problems like foundation settling. The engineer will check all load-bearing components in the home to ensure they are properly constructed and attached.
Afterward, the professional will generate a report of any existing damage and create a repair plan if necessary. Structural inspections are far more in-depth than regular home inspections. Home inspectors merely look at the condition, whereas structural engineers thoroughly examine the foundation, floors, walls, roof, columns, and more. This is an important step you will need before buying your home. Your home is an investment, and it’s imperative to know you will be safe there for years to come and that your investment is sound.
Do I Need an Inspection?
Many first-time homebuyers do not think of having a structural engineer perform their home inspections. A home inspection is a necessary part of the home-buying process, but people often just go with the home inspector recommended by the real estate company. Home inspectors usually do not get into the home’s true structure. Instead, these inspectors just conduct an overall inspection of the home’s systems, such as plumbing, electrical wiring, basement flood protection, and other areas.
Buying a Foreclosed Home? Here’s What You Need to Know
Many homebuyers are interested in buying foreclosed homes in today’s market. After all, foreclosed homes can sometimes be a great deal on a home that would otherwise be out of budget. However, foreclosed homes are almost always neglected. When the bank takes over a home, it is not interested in doing any repairs to get it back into shape. Foreclosed houses can sometimes sit on the market for years without any repairs or inspections. During this time, a number of problems can develop and worsen, and the home can deteriorate rapidly.
When the bank tries to sell the home, it usually does not disclose these problems, leaving homeowners on their own when issues crop up. A structural inspection will reveal the true condition of your potential home, so you can be prepared to make necessary repairs or, in severe cases, walk away from the offer.
Don’t Skip the Inspection on a New Build
There are a number of different companies that are providing trade services for the builder: site work, masons, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, sheet rockers, roofers, painters etc. These tradespeople are usually on site for only a few days before moving on to the next work site. They are focused on getting the job done and moving on…. often at the expense of compromising quality.
Unless you walk the roof, crawl through the attic, pull the breaker panel, and know what you are looking for, there is a good likelihood that missing roof tile, piggy-backed breakers, and black mold will be overlooked. All of these and many more problems have been detected by inspectors of newly constructed homes.
Yes, you should be able to rely on a new home and its warranty, but the fact of the matter is most big problems go undetected…. until it’s too late!
The builder will make a big case for you not needing an inspection…. really, why do you think this is?
Play it safe and have an inspection, or you can always roll the dice!