Structural Concerns in a Home Inspection

Bulges, deflections, and other irregularities in the roof framing, exterior wall framing, and interior framing, or cracks in the foundation wall may indicate a serious structural problem that may be the result of poor structural design, poor construction techniques, improper structural alteration, water damage, or termite damage. Jacking up a house to replace damaged structural components, or underpinning a defective foundation wall is a major expense. The home inspection engineer has the experience, education and expertise to evaluate structural problems; this is one of the reasons why retaining the services of a Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) to conduct your home inspection instead of a home inspector who is not licensed to practice engineering is advantageous. Sure, anybody can report that a structural defect exists, but only a P.E. is licensed to offer a professional engineering judgment and design to correct the problem. Home buyers who do not retain the services of a P.E. may have to pay a second fee to obtain a professional opinion.