Ancillary Inspections
Ancillary inspections are additional examinations conducted during a residential or commercial building inspection to identify issues beyond the scope of the standard inspection. These inspections are typically conducted by specialists who have expertise in a particular area, such as plumbing, electrical systems, or environmental hazards.
Some common ancillary inspections that may be recommended during a building inspection include:
Annual Maintenance Inspection
RADON Monitoring
Thermal Imaging
Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Radiation and Radio Frequency (RF) Radiation testing.
Aerial Drone Video & Photography
Sound Frequency Monitoring
End-of-Warranty Inspection
Bacterial Growth (Mold/Mold-Like Substances)
Indoor Air Quality (Carbon Monoxide/Gas/Radon/etc.)
Water Testing
Phased Inspections:
Foundation Inspection (Pre-Pour):
Checks site grading, footings, forms, rebar, and moisture barriers before concrete is poured.
After foundation, before walls go up, check the structural frame, roof, and exterior sheathing.
Pre-Drywall (Rough-in) Inspection:
Crucial check of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems after they're installed but before insulation and drywall covers them.
Insulation & Energy Efficiency Inspection:
Ensures proper insulation and air sealing before drywall.
Final Inspection (Pre-Closing):
Looks at the finished home: roofing, siding, windows, doors, all systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), finishes, drainage, and appliances.
One-Year Warranty Inspection (Pre-Expiration):
A final review to identify any hidden issues or defects before the builder's warranty ends.
Deck Inspection
Wind Mitigation (Required for Florida)
4-Point Inspection (Required for Florida)
Other Structures (Shed/Barn/etc.)
Overall, ancillary inspections are an important part of a comprehensive building inspection, as they can identify issues that may not be readily apparent during a standard inspection. By identifying these issues early, homeowners and building owners can take steps to address them before they become more serious and costly to repair.
