From Guest Blogger Lana Hawkins: Are there Green Home Inspections?

For a majority of people, purchasing a house is one of the crucial moments in their life, a dream come true. It might be both lovely and an exhausting experience as it is undoubtedly a huge investment and it requires a large financial commitment. Moreover, It is necessary to take a number of factors into consideration and carry out an in-depth research during the process of home-buying. However, in order not to make terrible mistakes and regret it afterwards, it is always advisable to consult home inspectors.

Home inspection

Home inspectors are responsible for inspecting particular components of the house you decide to purchase and then comment on their findings. Some of the basic components general home inspections such as Easy Path Inspections examine are exterior elements such as exterior walls, foundation, grading, a garage or carport, roof. Naturally, they examine the interior as well including plumbing, electricity, heating and air-conditioning, kitchen appliances, bathrooms and fire safety. However, bear in mind that regular home inspection cannot detect all problems that home-owners can encounter, but they can give you a few useful tips on how to maintain your household properly.

Taking into account that Green building is becoming increasingly popular, and that choosing an eco-friendly house would considerably contribute to general atmosphere and lifestyle, inspecting green features of the house you are purchasing should be on your list of preferences. Recently, future home-owners have been showing a particular interest for a green home inspection and what is included in its field of expertise.

Maintenance of environmental health

Unlike regular home inspection which identifies any necessary repairs, focuses on possible malfunctions and points to things that need replacement, in other words examines the general structure of the house, a green home inspection examines environmental condition of the house and identifies any features that might cause health issues. Even though a carpet is a perfect way to create a sense of comfort and coziness in the room, it retains dust and various substances, most frequently allergens.

Sustainable practices

Another thing that a green home inspector examines is sustainable materials or low-energy materials. In order to function properly, buildings require considerable energy use. A significantly less energy is used to produce low-energy materials such as wood from trees that grow fast. For instance, water saving devices like high efficiency shower-heads and toilets with dual flush triggers would be a perfect example of using sustainable materials at home. The aim is to reduce the impact of embodied energy and create long-life, durable and adaptable buildings.

Energy efficiency inspections

Inspection of the home energy use should also be on every home-owner’s inspection list. The amount of energy that we use mainly depends on the types and number of energy consuming devices we have in our home. If a green home inspector notices a condition which might cause short-cycling or a device that uses extensive energy, he should bring the matter to home owner’s attention. Such devices need immediate repair so as to prevent a serious damage to the household.

A green home inspector will examine solar energy systems but he will neither perform their evaluation nor give suggestions regarding efficient energy use and how to reduce general utility expenses. Measuring the energy efficiency of the household is included in an energy audit. However, “green inspectors” can do additional training and become qualified to perform above mentioned actions.

Creating a healthier household is not only beneficial to environment itself but it is also a good investment as it saves money for a longer period of time and provides pleasant atmosphere for your family. Green home inspectors can be found through different inspection organizations. They can provide answers to your questions about your property and they can determine the level of eco-friendliness as well as prevent huge energy waste. It will cost you a little bit of money, but it surely is cost-effective.