If you’re buying or selling a home, it’s important to know the difference between a structural inspection and a home inspection. A structural inspection is done by a structural engineer, while a home inspection is done by a home inspector. The purpose of each inspection is different as well, and each has its benefits.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at the difference between a structural inspection and a home inspection and how each one affects you as a buyer or seller.
What is a Structural Inspection?
A structural inspection is an assessment of the home’s structure, including the foundation, framing, and support systems. This type of inspection is typically done by a structural engineer. The engineer will look for any signs of damage or distress and make recommendations for repairs.
A structural engineer inspection checklist will vary depending on the type of home being inspected. However, some parts of a home are commonly inspected, such as:
- The foundation
- The framing
- The support systems
- The roof
- The windows and doors
A structural engineer home inspection is meant to assess the safety of the structure of the home. This includes things like the foundation, framing, and support beams. A structural inspection cost will be between $300 and $3,000, depending on the size of your home, Angi explains.
Benefits of a Structural Inspection
A structural inspection is beneficial because it can:
- Determine the structural integrity of the home
- Identify any work that needs to be done
- Help you negotiate a price on your home
- Give you a professional opinion on the state of your home
You should get a structural inspection if you’re buying an older home, a home that’s been damaged, or a home that you plan to renovate.
How Long Does a Structural Inspection Take?
A structural inspection generally takes about one hour for every 1,500 square feet of your home.
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection, on the other hand, is a basic and non-invasive examination of the overall condition of a property. This is usually done as part of the sale of that property. A home inspector will have gone through training and been certified to carry out this type of evaluation and will often provide a written report to the buyer.
The cost of a home inspection is usually between $300 and $600.
Benefits of a Home Inspection
A home inspection report can be very helpful to a buyer. It can give you an idea of the condition of the property and help you negotiate a better purchase price. It can also help you avoid buying a home that has hidden problems.
For sellers, a home inspection report can help you identify any issues with your property before putting it on the market. Fixing these issues beforehand can help you get a higher price for your home.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
Depending on the size and state of your home, a home inspection can take anywhere from two to three hours. The inspector will go through the house room by room and look for major and minor issues, as well as check the exterior.
If you’re buying a home, it’s important to attend the inspection so that you can ask questions and get clarification on anything in the report.
Structural Inspection vs. Home Inspection
The main difference between a structural inspection and a home inspection is that a structural inspection assesses the safety of the structure of your home, while a home inspection assesses the condition of your home.
A residential structural inspection is conducted by a structural engineer and looks at the load-bearing elements of your home, such as the foundation, framing, and roofing. They will also look at any visible damage to these elements and assess whether or not they pose a safety hazard.
A home inspection, on the other hand, is conducted by a certified home inspector and assesses the condition of your home as a whole. They will look at everything from the condition of your appliances to the structural integrity of your home.
Which Inspection Should You Choose?
If you’re thinking of buying a home, it’s important to get both a structural inspection and a home inspection. That way, you can be sure that your new home is safe and in good condition.
If you’re selling your home, you may also want to get a structural inspection and home inspection to give potential buyers peace of mind.
Need a home inspection? Elite Group is here to help. Our expert home inspectors will assess the condition of your home and provide you with a detailed report. Contact us today to schedule an inspection!
