The InterNACHI Standards of Practice define the scope and limitations of a residential home inspection.
Quentin Home Inspection follows the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) Standards of Practice. These standards define the minimum requirements for a residential property inspection — what the inspector will examine, the methods used, and the limitations of the inspection process.
The following is a summary of the key sections. The complete, unabridged Standards of Practice are maintained by InterNACHI at nachi.org/sop.htm.
The SOP defines key terms including "inspection" (a non-invasive, visual examination), "inspect" (to visually examine readily accessible systems using normal operating controls), "readily accessible" (available for visual inspection without requiring moving personal property, dismantling, destructive measures, or unsafe actions), and "material defect" (a specific issue that may have a significant, adverse impact on the value of the property or that poses an unreasonable risk to people).
The SOP excludes systems and conditions that are concealed, inaccessible, or outside the scope of a visual inspection. These include but are not limited to: systems that are shut down or otherwise inoperable, underground utilities, items requiring disassembly or destructive testing, areas not readily accessible due to obstructions, hazardous materials (asbestos, lead paint, mold, radon), environmental conditions, code compliance verification, engineering analysis, pest or termite activity (unless separately contracted), cosmetic defects, and future performance predictions.
A home inspection is a snapshot in time. It is not technically exhaustive. It does not include warranty, guarantee, or insurance. The inspector is not required to determine remaining life expectancy, causes of conditions, methods or costs of corrections, future conditions, suitability for a specific purpose, market value, or the advisability of purchase. The inspector is not required to move personal property, dismantle systems, enter unsafe areas, or inspect in adverse conditions.
InterNACHI members are bound by a Code of Ethics that requires objectivity, independence from parties with financial interest in the transaction, accurate and timely reporting, continued education, and professional conduct.
Content based on the InterNACHI Standards of Practice. Full text maintained by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
Read Full InterNACHI SOP →