Goverment VS. ASHI Inspection

Who Does the Inspection and Why

Government inspectors work for the local municipality. Their job is to verify that construction meets the minimum standards set by building codes (IRC, IBC, and local amendments). They are enforcing law — if a builder fails, work stops.

An ASHI home inspector is a private professional hired by a buyer (or seller) whose job is to evaluate the overall condition of a home and identify defects, safety concerns, and maintenance issues. They have no enforcement power.

When It Happens

Code inspections happen during construction at specific milestones — typically:

• Foundation

• Rough framing

• Rough plumbing

• Rough electrical

• Insulation

• Final inspection

The inspector signs off at each stage before work is covered up. An ASHI inspection happens after the home is finished, usually as part of a real estate transaction.

What They Look At

Code inspectors check specific items tied to the permit. They are not doing a comprehensive room-by-room evaluation — they ask "Does this meet code?" not "Is this the best way to do it?"

An ASHI inspector follows the ASHI Standards of Practice, covering all readily accessible and visually observable systems and components of the home, including:

• Roof

• Structure and foundation

• Electrical systems

• Plumbing

• HVAC

• Insulation and ventilation

• Windows and doors

The ASHI inspector assesses condition, not just code compliance.