What House Inspector cannot determine

Not visible in photographs

• Conditions behind walls, under finishes, below grade, inside equipment, or beneath roofing.
• Intermittent leaks, electrical faults, gas leaks, combustion problems, pests, and environmental contaminants.
• Structural adequacy, code compliance, remaining service life, and complete repair scope.

Testing and specialist work

Radon, asbestos, lead, mold conditions, sewer lines, termites, septic systems, wells, chimneys, pools, and many building systems require dedicated procedures or qualified specialists. A standard inspection may also exclude some of these services.

When to stop

Do not enter an unsafe area or touch suspect materials. Leave and contact emergency services, the utility, or an appropriate licensed professional for smoke, fire, sparking, gas odor, unstable structure, sewage, active flooding near electricity, or suspected hazardous-material disturbance.