Is Thermal Imaging Worth It for A Home Inspection?

Increasing numbers of licensed home inspectors are strongly recommending an infrared inspection to prospective home buyers. Driven by this advice, a thermography inspection is fast becoming an essential component of a thorough home inspection.  

Is a home inspection infrared scan worth it? For first-time buyers and even current homeowners familiar with the purchase process, the answer is an emphatic yes. The advanced, non-invasive technology used to facilitate an infrared home inspection allows a licensed home inspector to discover things about a home that conventional inspection methods may fail to uncover.

In simple terms, an infrared home inspection uses thermal cameras to translate thermal energy (heat) into visible light so a particular object or scene can be analyzed. When thermal imaging cameras convert infrared (IR) radiation (heat), the resulting images depict the spatial distribution of temperature differences in the area being viewed.

Use infrared to detect signs of moisture and electrical faults

The differences in expected surface temperatures revealed by a thermography inspection can identify and document multiple problematic issues to include:

• Moisture intrusion - includes roofing leaks and even hidden sources of mold
• Energy issues – including heat loss and missing insulation
• Electrical faults - including identifying ‘hot spots’ which suggests problems with electrical connections, wiring or other system elements
• Pest infestations - specifically South Florida’s common subterranean termite activity as well as potential rodent infestations
• Structural defects - Scans of walls, floors and ceilings reveals hidden missing structural components and damaged portions.
• Foundation cracks
• Ventilation glitches

Obviously, identifying these issues in advance of a home purchase can potentially save a buyer a ton stress and bundle of money.

To be clear, an infrared inspection doesn't negate the need for a traditional home inspection performed by a licensed home inspector. There is no substitute for a qualified home inspector’s experience and knowledge of all the systems that make up a home. However, infrared technology – to include infrared moisture detection and infrared electrical inspection – is an excellent complement to a thorough visual inspection.

The last thing buyers want or need is unexpected problems. Adding infrared thermal imaging to a comprehensive home inspection will help ensure purchasers are buying the house of their dreams and not hidden, often costly, headaches.

South Florida Premier Home Inspections offers complete home inspection services to buyers across the South East Florida area. Combining deep knowledge of every major system inside and outside a home – as well an in-depth understanding of issues specific to the region – SFPHI’s solid 5 plus years of experience in South Florida ensures home buyers receive affordable and superior home inspection services. Our valued clients deserve a quality experience and SFPHI delivers throughout the process and beyond.

South Florida Premier Home Inspections

QUALITY AND AFFORDABLE HOME INSPECTIONS IN SOUTH EAST FLORIDA

Call Rick at (561) 705-7006 or book your inspection online today.