Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections

Home inspectors play an important role for homeowners and buyers. For those looking to sell their house, a pre-listing inspection can help increase buyer confidence and encourage higher offers. Inspections help potential buyers learn more about the condition of the home before finalizing the sale. Home inspections are more accurate and thorough when the inspector uses thermal imaging in home inspections.

Benefits of Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections

While most inspectors use standard tools to help them inspect homes, some choose to incorporate state-of-the-art technology. Infrared cameras allow inspectors to catch problems that would otherwise go unnoticed. Thermal imaging reads the temperature being emitted from different objects, making it easier to determine when something is wrong. This is the main reason why thermal imaging is beneficial in home inspections.

What Thermal Imaging Cameras Can Catch

Inspectors who use thermal cameras for home inspections will be able to uncover several potential problems including heat loss, moisture buildup, electrical hotspots, and insufficient insulation. Let’s take a look at some of the most important aspects in more detail.

Electrical Hotspots

When using a thermal imaging camera, a home’s electrical system should read at a steady temperature. If there’s a pocket of abnormal heat emission, an infrared image will show it as an area with a brighter color. Yellows, oranges, and reds denote hotter temperatures. Electrical hotspots are important to detect during a home inspection because they can cause house fires.

Moisture Issues

Plumbing leaks can cause structural damage, mold growth, and a host of other problems. Since most moisture buildup happens beneath the floor, above the ceiling, or within walls, it’s often impossible to see until damage occurs. However, thermal imaging in home inspections can detect these moisture issues much sooner. Cooler areas on a thermal image may be a sign of water intrusion.