When buying a home, the standard home inspection provides a general overview of the property’s condition, but it doesn’t cover everything. Home inspectors are limited to what they can see—they aren’t tearing down walls, pulling up carpets, or digging up the yard to take a closer look at the foundation.
While some inspectors offer specialized inspections as add-ons, not all do. So if they spot something that seems off, they may recommend bringing in a specialist for a closer look.
Depending on the home’s age, location, and unique features, additional inspections can provide peace of mind and prevent unexpected expenses after closing. A home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make—so spending a few extra bucks on additional inspections might make sense to give you peace of mind.
Here are a few inspections that may be worth considering if your home inspector sees (or senses) something that needs further evaluation:
1) Sewer Scope Inspection
A small camera is inserted into the sewer line to check for blockages, tree root intrusion, or pipe damage. Just because everything flushes fine today doesn’t mean there isn’t a lurking disaster beneath your yard. This is especially important for older homes with clay or cast-iron pipes, which can crack, shift, or clog over time.
2) Underground Tank Inspection
Buried oil tanks were once common for home heating, and while many have been removed, some still linger underground. If an old tank is rusting away on the property, it could lead to soil contamination and expensive remediation. If there’s any suspicion of a tank, a specialized inspection using ground-penetrating radar or metal detectors can confirm its presence.
3) Mold Inspection
Mold can lurk behind walls and under floors, causing respiratory issues and structural damage. Musty smells, past water damage, or visible growth are all red flags. A mold inspection can help detect hidden moisture problems before they turn into a full-blown remediation project.
4) Pest Inspection
A standard home inspection might note signs of critters, but the inspector might not feel comfortable or confident in saying whether it’s an active infestation, or past damage. Carpenter ants, rodents, and wood-boring insects can cause significant damage. A dedicated pest inspection can identify active infestations, past damage, and areas that could attract future pests.
5) Asbestos Inspection
If you’re buying an older home, especially one built before the 1980s, asbestos could be lurking in insulation, tiles, roofing materials, or even old popcorn ceilings. If disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and pose serious health risks. Testing can determine whether remediation is necessary.
6) Lead-Based Paint Testing
Homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint, which can be a serious health hazard—especially for young children. Chipping, peeling, or dust-producing paint can expose residents to lead poisoning. A lead test can determine if the home requires mitigation.
7) Well Water Testing
If the home relies on a private well, don’t just assume the water is pristine. A comprehensive test can check for bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, and other contaminants. Safe drinking water is essential, and a little testing now can prevent bigger headaches later.
8) Septic System Inspection
If the home has a septic system, don’t wait until it backs up to realize there’s an issue. A septic inspection can assess whether the system is functioning properly, check the tank’s condition, and verify that it’s breaking down waste as it should.
9) Pool and Spa Inspection
If the property has a pool or hot tub, don’t assume a quick glance at the water tells the whole story. An inspection can uncover leaks, faulty pumps, electrical hazards, or safety issues. A well-maintained pool can be a backyard paradise—one with hidden problems can be an expensive headache.
