Attic Inspection Overview

Located between the interior ceiling and roof, attics are designed to help regulate and control airflow throughout a home or commercial property. These spaces are critical to regulating temperature and can have drastic impacts on a property’s energy efficiency.

Due to most of a property’s heat being collected in the attic, attics are not typically considered livable space and are often only used for storage. However, finished attics can have a variety of uses, including additional living space.

Attics are a common feature of more conventional American-style homes and buildings found across the Southwest, specifically those with sloped roofs. It is usually in the attic that you can see the underside of the roof and the top of the property’s frame. HVAC units, plumbing, and electrical components may also be routed through the attic.

However, attics are not as common in the flat-roofed pueblo and modern style properties. There is still generally an air space between the ceiling and roof that serves the same heat-regulating purposes as a conventional attic.

Included In Every Inspection

Attic Inspection Process

Per InterNACHI® Standards of Practice for Attic inspections, your inspector will identify, observe, and examine the following aspects of the attic:

Insulation

Typically made of fiberglass or cellulose, insulation protects your property from damage caused by heat and moisture. Your inspector will identify the type and average approximate depth of the insulation.

Ventilation

Comprised of intake and exhaust vents, attic ventilation not only helps keep you comfortable throughout the year, but also plays a major role in maintaining indoor air quality and preventing moisture.

Mechanical Exhaust Systems

These systems are designed to increase the efficiency of ventilation. Using fans, turbines, or powered components to force air out of the attic, these systems allow for more consistent control over attic temperature.