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You should schedule a fireplace inspection at least once a year, per the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). However, this is the minimum requirement even if you’re diligent with fireplace maintenance between uses. If you suspect your fireplace is malfunctioning, schedule one sooner to avoid fire hazards or the release of harmful emissions like carbon monoxide in your home.

Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.

It can be safe to buy or live in a house with knob and tube (K&T) wiring, but only if the system is in good condition, functional, and has been thoroughly inspected and approved by a licensed electrician. Never purchase a home with K&T wiring without getting a professional electrical inspection first.

Key considerations include:

• Safety and Condition: An inspector will verify that the wiring is safe and has not deteriorated. Over time, the insulation can wear away, leaving exposed wires that pose a significant fire or shock hazard.

• System Capacity: The electrical service should be at least 60 amps. However, even at this capacity, K&T systems often struggle to handle the demands of modern appliances and electronics.

• Lack of Grounding: Knob and tube wiring is an ungrounded system, which is a safety concern for many modern devices.

• Ongoing Maintenance: If you live in a home with K&T wiring, it's recommended to have it inspected by an electrician every one to two years to ensure it remains in safe working order.

Ultimately, any inspection or modification of a knob and tube system should always be performed by a certified professional.

To prepare for a pre-drywall inspection, make sure to schedule the inspection before your drywall (and preferably insulation) is installed, but after all ductwork, plumbing, electrical wiring, and framing are in. You should also print a copy of your floor plan for your inspector, which they’ll use to make sure the build matches up. Lastly, try to clear the home of major obstacles (tools, large stacks of material, etc.) to allow the inspector access to the places they need to check.