Get matched with top chimney inspectors in Danville, WV

The main purpose of a home inspection is to assess the overall condition of a home. It looks at major systems, like electrical and plumbing, and considers the long-term safety of the home. In contrast, a home appraisal sets out to estimate a home’s fair market value, often for lending purposes. At about $350, a home appraisal costs about the same as an average home inspection.

Certified fire door inspectors should inspect fire doors. These professionals receive training to specifically assess the condition, functionality, and compliance of fire doors. They often hold credentials from groups like the Door and Hardware Institute (DHI) or the International Fire Door Inspector Association (IFDIA). While fire marshals won’t usually do hands-on inspections, they’ll check that doors are being maintained properly during routine safety audits. If a building relies on fire doors for code compliance, it needs someone who understands the details—the difference between a cosmetic issue and a safety failure—and standards to sign off with confidence.

It is not safe to live in a house with smoke damage—even minor smoke damage can lead to long-term health hazards and structural risks. Smoke smells and residue contain particulates and chemical compounds that are dangerous to breathe in and can damage your belongings and your home’s structural materials. Have a trained professional assess your home after a fire to determine when it’s safe to return.

Homeowners usually do not have to update existing systems unless they are doing significant renovations. Consult your local building codes or ask a knowledgeable local contractor for the details.