How To Choose a Log Cabin Inspector

A home inspection will inform you, as the potential buyer, of the log cabin’s current condition and assure you that it is ready to occupy.

Your log home is a major investment and whether you plan to live there forever or move on in a few years, you certainly don’t want any unexpected problems cropping up to surprise you down the road. As a log cabin buyer, you need to exercise extra due diligence and that’s why choosing a log cabin inspector makes sense. You can get a quick idea of the overall condition of the cabin on your own with our short inspection checklist or hire a professional to conduct a comprehensive inspection.

What’s The Difference Between A Home Inspector And A Building Inspector?

A home inspector is a private, certified individual who the potential buyer hires to watch out for the buyer’s interests while he conducts an independent home inspection.

A building inspector works for the local building code agency, usually the city or county, and inspects the house during the construction process. Building inspectors ensure that the log home is built according to local building codes.

Typical inspections for a building inspector include:

Footers and Foundation
Sill Attachment and Foundation Waterproofing
Framing
Rough Electrical
Rough HVAC
Rough Plumbing
Insulation
Gas Piping
Final Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC
Issuance of Certificate of Occupancy

What Does An Inspection Involve?

A new cabin inspection is a visual, operational check of all the different components of a home. It is non-invasive, meaning that the inspector will not drill into walls, remove structures or damage the property in order to perform the home inspection.

Checklist

What is included on the typical cabin inspection checklist?

The following list details many of the systems that are included:

Structural — foundations, bearing walls, floor systems, etc.
Electrical Systems — wiring, switches, receptacles, service panel, etc.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) — cooling, heating, and air handling equipment, distribution systems, and controls.
Plumbing Systems — fixtures & faucets, piping, water heating system, etc.
Insulation — attic and exterior insulation.
Roofing — roof coverings and flashing.
Interior — wall partitions, interior doors, windows, ceilings, floors, etc.
Exterior — windows, doors, siding, decks, garages, drainage, etc.

A comprehensive report is provided following the visit, sometimes including recommendations for further evaluation by specialized inspectors, such as structural engineers, radon inspectors or mold mitigation specialists.

Red Flags

What are the major problems that might raise a red flag?

The following issues are ones you want to address quickly or that might even lead you to back out of the deal.

Water damage — Extensive water damage can lead to rotted wood and the growth of mold and mildew in your log cabin.
Radon — Radon is an odorless gas that can cause cancer.
Mold — Toxic mold can cause serious health issues and is becoming a bigger problem.
Termites and carpenter bees — Insects can attack your wood logs and cause serious damage over time.
Foundation or structural problems — Foundation or structural problems can add up to big bucks for repairs on your log home.
Undersized electrical system — Today’s log homes use more and more power to supply hot tubs, hairdryers, home offices, and kitchen appliances. Upgrading cabin wiring can be expensive.