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Why Get a Mobile Home Inspected Before Purchase?
Purchasing a mobile home is a significant investment, and ensuring that you make an informed decision is crucial. Since mobile homes are built differently from traditional homes, they require a specialized inspector who understands those differences. An experienced inspector is equipped with the knowledge to examine the unique construction features, from the foundation to the roof, and can identify potential problems before they evolve into major headaches for you. These professionals understand the intricacies and common pitfalls that are unique to mobile homes, ensuring your investment is secure and sound.
Mobile home inspections are especially important if you’re buying or selling a mobile home. Buyers naturally want to be assured they’re acquiring a home free of major defects, while sellers need to address any possible concerns in advance of the sale process. An inspection not only acts as a protective measure for the buyer but also adds a layer of credibility to the seller’s offering. Even if you’re not currently selling, regular inspections are a proactive approach that helps you stay on top of maintenance and protect your home’s value over time.
Consistent inspections can identify small issues before they develop into more significant, costly repairs, which could otherwise erode your home’s worth.
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SkyScope Inspections offers Senior Citizen Discounts for manufactured home Inspections in all 55+ retirement communities in Polk County.
What is Included in a Mobile Home Inspection?
An InterNACHI mobile home inspection is a comprehensive process that includes a thorough visual examination of the foundation, structure, and major systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. This systematic assessment focuses on the unique aspects of factory-built homes, such as checking for pier settlement, securing proper tie-downs, and detecting moisture intrusion in the crawlspace. The inspection also meticulously covers the entire exterior (including the roof, siding, windows, and doors) and interior (walls, floors, ceilings), with an eye for identifying any safety concerns or necessary repairs that might compromise the home’s integrity or safety.
Foundation and structure: The foundation and structure are pivotal to the home’s stability. This includes inspecting the piers, foundation, and overall structural support for any signs of settlement, shifting, or damage. Early detection of these issues can prevent future structural failures.
Exterior: An inspector will conduct a detailed examination of the roof, siding, and caulking for any damage, deterioration, and ensure proper installation, paying special attention to the potentially vulnerable areas around windows and doors. These elements are crucial in protecting the home from weather elements.
Interior: This thorough check involves evaluating walls, floors, and ceilings for issues such as water damage. It also reviews the condition of windows, doors, and stairs to ensure they are functional and safe. Addressing any imperfections early on saves considerable repair costs down the line.
Plumbing: The inspection will delve into the plumbing system to identify any leaks, unsafe modifications, or aging materials that could lead to failures. Early repair of plumbing issues is crucial in preventing water damage and maintaining a safe water supply.
Electrical: Inspectors will review the electrical panel, visible wiring, and check GFCI protection, carefully looking for safety issues like aluminum wiring or poorly configured disconnects. Modern safety standards are paramount in preventing electrical hazards.
HVAC: A critical evaluation of the heating, cooling, and ductwork systems is conducted to ensure they are in optimal working condition and that airflow is properly managed. This contributes significantly to the home’s comfort and energy efficiency.
Crawlspace: Known as a critical area, it is inspected for signs of plumbing leaks, wood rot, moisture damage, and rodent activity. Maintaining this area is essential for avoiding long-term structural issues.
Skirting and Ventilation: Mobile homes feature skirting that protects the underside of the home, which is particularly vulnerable to weather damage. Proper ventilation under the home is key to preventing moisture buildup that could lead to mold or decay, which can affect air quality and the structural integrity of the home.
Construction and Transport Issues: Mobile homes, built in factories and transported to their final location, are vulnerable to damage during transport and susceptible to manufacturing defects. Inspectors pay extra attention to any damage caused during transport and check for defects that could affect the home’s stability and safety. Identifying such issues ensures that the home's transportation hasn’t compromised its structural integrity and longevity.
Specialized Checks: Due to the unique nature of mobile homes, inspectors specifically check for the proper installation of hurricane tie-downs and look for potential issues like PB (polybutylene) water lines. These specialized checks are critical in regions prone to harsher weather conditions, providing an additional safeguard against environmental challenges.
Overall, a mobile home inspection is an invaluable tool, helping ensure that both buyers and sellers make transactions with confidence, whether in procuring a new space or maintaining an existing one. This preventative step secures your investment and contributes to a worry-free living environment.
What To Expect
We make the inspection process simple — from scheduling to receiving your detailed report.
Confirm Your Appointment
01
After securing your appointment with us, please review and sign the emailed inspection agreement. This essential step ensures your inspection is fully confirmed and ready to proceed.
Attend Your Inspection
02
On the day of the inspection, we strongly encourage you to meet with our inspector. Should you have any questions about the process or need clarification regarding your home’s specifics, our inspector will guide you through and provide the necessary answers.
Receive your detailed report
03
Following the inspection, we will send you a comprehensive report that highlights your property's condition. This report is accessible once the inspection fee has been paid in full.