Are appliances included in a home inspection?
This question is put forth to us quite often. The answer may vary from one home inspector to the next. Many times the offer(agreement of purchase and sale) are written up with the seller warranting that the appliances are and will be in good working order on the possession date(closing date).
This is great and highly recommended but unfortunately does not warrant the overall condition of the appliance or fixture. It may be working but what is the condition of the said appliance, these are questions that should to be answered.
As certified home inspectors we feel it is important to inspect the following appliances:
Dishwasher
First and foremost we will check that the appliance is in fact working. Dishwashers have varying cycles ranging in different lengths. For our inspection we utilize the short cycle. We will check for:
leaks
condition of door gasket
roller operation
spray arms
backflow prevention
heating element
door latch
dish racks
spray arms
Electric and Gas Range, Cooktop & Oven
From a safety standpoint inspecting the the Electric and Gas Range, Cooktop & Oven is of utmost importance. If installed improperly of damaged, can lead to fatal accident. We will check the following:
Unit is in working
gas leaks
gas shut off valve
glass panels
door gasket
heating element or burners
thermostat accuracy
door latch
drip pans
combustible material clearance
securely mounted?
Range Exhaust Vent
The range exhaust vent is an important fixture that coincides with the use of the oven. When inspecting the operation of the oven we will also inspect the operation of the range hood. The following deficiency's will be noted on the inspection report.
venting does not exit to the outside of structure
inadequate vent pipe material
unusual sounds and/or vibrations
blower that does not operate at all selected speeds
inoperable light
is the range properly secured?
Microwave
More often that not the microwave will be included with the home purchase. The microwave isn't considered a built in appliance but we inspect them as an added bonus to our clients.
What we check:
is the unit operational?
controls and control panels
handles
turntable
interior surfaces
glass panels
lights and lenses
secure mounting of unit
operation as heating container of water.
Blog by:
Andrew Weaver
Certified home inspector
705-606-6331
Serving Barrie, Wasaga Beach, Collingwood and surrounding areas