How thoroughly can an inspection detect the extent of previous fire damage?
Interested in a home in Fowlerville, MI that does not disclose any prior knowledge of fire damage, yet there is obvious charring on beams inside the knee wall/access, an overhead access panel with soot buildup around the enclosure that comes off to the touch, and charring on the boards all the way up to the peak. The fire looks to have originated in the kitchen, either a bad appliance (Stove), outlet, or grease fire. It appears to have been contained only in and above the kitchen after observing how far the soot traveled and after assessing the beams in the access above the kitchen. There is a brand new 240 outlet installed, leading me to believe it could have been bad electrical as well. I would also like a thermal imaging inspection completed and was curious as to the cost and benefits of such. Thank you!
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April 9th, 2018
Asked by Jennifer R.
Fowlerville, MI
Topics:
Electrical Panel Upgrade
,
Home Inspection
,
Fire & Smoke Damage Remediation
1 answer
May 22nd 2018
Jennifer: It sounds like you might want to check on permit history regarding the house, and see the seller disclosure, if any. If there was a fire and or electrical work done typically permits are required. That said, a home inspection can detect what is visible only. A thermal scan could be helpful to determine unusual moisture conditions or missing insulation, but generally won't detect fire damage. You can call us at 855-494-5972 or look for a home inspector here: https://porch.com/professionals-by-state. Thank you.
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