In more and more homes, at least some part of the garage is given over to living, working or playing. Many garages are fully equipped with electrical and plumbing facilities. In fact, sometimes there is as much to inspect in a garage as a small house.

The importance of making a thorough inspection is compounded by the fact that many house fires start in the garage. Inspecting the garage is included in a general home inspection. A qualified professional will inspect the garage as part of the exterior inspection.

The first thing an inspector will indicate is the type of garage. There are typically three categories: detached, attached and detached with breezeway. With gas fumes, oil spills, paint thinner and air that doesn’t move, fire is a potential hazard in all garages. It’s important that any fire that breaks out in a garage doesn’t spread to any living space above or to the attached house. To contain a fire within the garage, surfaces between the garage and living spaces must be fireproofed. The inspector will check for the presence of a fire wall and fire door (if required).

For more information on home inspections or commercial property inspections, or to locate an inspector in your area, go to www.npiweb.com.