A house is the biggest investment most people will ever make, not to mention the environment in which they spend much of their time. Whether evaluating a house independently or with the help of a home inspector, homebuyers owe it to themselves to understand as much as possible about house components and systems, how they function, how they can go wrong, the consequences of common problems, and what to look for in evaluating them. Inspecting a House: A Guide for Buyers, Owners, and Renovators takes a system-by-system approach to the daunting task of assessing a building’s strengths and weaknesses. Readers will be able to break their evaluation into coherent, manageable pieces. Using clear, concise descriptions and outstanding technical illustrations, the book covers all major house components and areas, including: • The structure, exterior, and roof of the house • Heating systems, electrical wiring, and plumbing • Insulation and interiors • The hidden spaces-attics, basements, and crawl spaces For buyers and owners interested in renovating a house, the book also covers the functions of architects, designers, consultants, and general contractors. Important elements of the renovation process are included: planning and budgeting, building permits, contracts, and new building materials. Inspecting a House will be a valuable tool during the homebuying process and, afterwards, as a reference for home maintenance and improvement.