Home Inspection Key Terms

Learn the basics of a home inspection

By Terri Deno

A home inspection is a critical part of the building process of a house. It is also an important step to take when considering purchasing a house. A home inspection helps to determine any areas of the house that have not been constructed according to local building codes. Home inspectors also look for any deterioration in parts of the house that can make a it unsafe to live in. All home inspectors must be trained and certified with local building codes.

Exclusions

Exclusions are areas of the house that are not required to be reported during a home inspection. Some exclusions require a specially licensed inspector for the job. Exclusions will vary according to local and state building codes.
Try: The Home Buying Guide from The Boston Globe provides information on the types of exclusions for home inspections in Massachusetts.

Authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)

The authority having jurisdiction is an individual, company or other organization that is responsible for enforcing building codes and standards on a construction project.
Try: Parsons Electric provides advice on working with the AHJ of a building project when it comes to installing network cables.

Building permit

A building permit is written authorization for a building to be constructed or renovated. The permit is issued by a municipal, county or state government and is specific to the project outline described in the permit application.
Try: The City of Knoxville, TN provides answers to frequently asked questions about building codes, permits and inspection procedures.

Certified home inspector

A certified home inspector is a professional that has earned the designation administered through a federal certification standards organization.
Try: The American Society of Home Inspectors provides the standards of practice that all certified home inspectors must know and follow.

International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors is a nonprofit organization that brings together home inspectors across the world. InterNACHI provides networking opportunities and information resources for its members.
Try: Read more about member benefits on the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors' website.

National Electrical Code (NEC)

The National Electric Code is a set of rules created to govern wiring methods during construction. Local codes and national codes are not always the same, but local codes should be the basis for any inspection.
Try: Codebook City provides tips on how to read and interpret the many parts of the National Electrical Code.