Get matched with top chimney inspectors in Belfield, ND

You can check your home's humidity in a few ways. A simple option is to use a hygrometer, which you can find at a hardware or big box store. Your smartphone may also have an app that can measure humidity. Modern thermostats, particularly smart thermostats, are also able to measure humidity levels.

Failing to open your flue can lead to serious health hazards if you start a fire because the smoke will back up into your home. Breathing fire smoke, even in relatively small quantities, is bad for human lungs, and smoke can also irritate your nasal passages and eyes. Furthermore, smoke can cause damage to your interior fixtures and furnishings, at the very least leaving an unpleasant smoky smell for a long time. In short: If your flue isn’t open (or you’re not sure if it is or not), don’t start a fire to find out!

There are a few key differences between wind mitigation and four-point inspections. Wind mitigation inspections focus on a single aspect of your home (its ability to withstand high winds). In contrast, four-point inspections assess multiple parts of your house (roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC). Despite this, wind mitigation and four-point inspections cost about the same amount.

Depending on your state, a home inspector may need a license. All states and the District of Columbia require home inspectors to undergo training. However, some states (such as New York, Texas, Washington, and Illinois) require state-issued licenses while others (including California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Virginia) do not.

Other professional certifications include the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) certification, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) certification, and the National Home Inspector Examination. Inspectors can also receive certifications in specialized areas. These can include structural specialties, like chimneys, swimming pools, or septic systems, as well as specific issues like mold, pests, or radon gas. Whatever your situation, make sure your home inspector is certified to handle it.