Get matched with top chimney inspectors in Hope, AR

The difference between an energy auditor and a home inspector is primarily in the purpose of the inspection. The energy auditor conducts tests in your home to determine the energy efficiency levels in areas like windows, insulation, and doorways. The auditor then makes recommendations for ways to improve a home’s energy efficiency. 

A home inspector examines various structures of your home to determine that everything is up to code and gauge the condition of features like the roof, foundation, HVAC, and electrical. The home inspector reports on the overall home and makes repair recommendations.

Part of a pre-drywall inspector’s job is ensuring all work done on the home is up to code. If they discover anything that doesn’t comply, these fixes may be required by the local government or by the lender financing the build. Aside from these mandatory post-inspection home repairs, it’s technically optional to make any other repairs—though it’s a good idea to remain proactive about them to avoid a bigger issue in the future.

Home inspectors may look briefly at your roof, but certified roof experts will be more thorough. Hiring a roof inspector can give you a better sense of any underlying concerns as well as longevity. That said, a roof inspector won’t look at the rest of your home. The inspection may or may not include the attic, where problems can be hidden if they aren’t already visible on the surface of your roof. It’s important to clarify exactly what you’re getting with your inspector so there are no surprises.

If you’re in the market, you might think twice before buying a home with a cesspool on the property. You’ll need to factor in the costs of either maintaining the cesspool (such as with aeration, pumping, and cleaning) or dismantling the system and replacing it with a septic tank or sewage line connection. It might still be a good idea to buy that home, but you’ll need to decide for yourself if the costs and hassle are worth it.