Garage Definition

It does not take over 5,000 garage inspections to be able to properly define what a garage. A garage is a building enclosed on five sides with a large enough door to fit at least one vehicle in. The garage—oddly enough—is considered part of the “Exterior” of the property, which is why Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are required there today. Garages are not habitable dwellings, and bedroom doors should never lead directly to a garage.

What Is a Garage Inspection?

A garage inspection entails evaluating the home’s attached or detached garage and its visible components. Garages often contain structural, electrical, fire safety, plumbing, and mechanical components, making them one of the most important areas inspected during a home inspection.

During the inspection, I evaluate the garage door system, automatic opener, safety features, fire separation assembly, framing, walls, ceiling, floor, electrical components, ventilation, and other accessible garage features. I look for damage, deterioration, improper installation, moisture intrusion, safety concerns, and other visible conditions that may affect the garage’s performance or the home’s overall safety.

What Does a Garage Inspection Include?

• Garage door
• Garage door opener
• Safety reverse features
• Photoelectric sensors
• Springs, tracks, rollers, and hardware
• Fire separation assembly
• Garage-to-house entry door
• Self-closing devices
• Walls and ceiling
• Framing
• Concrete floor
• Electrical panels (when located in the garage)
• Receptacles, switches, and lighting
• GFCI protection
• Hose bibs
• Water heaters (when located in the garage)
• Visible plumbing
• Vehicle impact protection (where applicable)
• Ventilation
• Attic access (when located in the garage)

What Is Not Included?

• Stored personal belongings are not moved.
• Concealed components cannot be inspected.
• Garage door balance is not evaluated if doing so would require disconnecting the opener.
• Cosmetic conditions may not be reported.
• Security systems, storage cabinets, and personal property are outside the scope of the inspection.
• Vehicle lifts, workshops, and specialty equipment are not evaluated.
• Underground plumbing or electrical systems are not inspected.

Common Garage Defects Found During Home Inspections

Examples include:

Service Area

We have inspected numerous garages and homes as well as commercial buildings in and around:

• Chino Hills
• Corona
• Yorba Linda
• Irvine
• Anaheim

In Their Own Words

The Interactive House Inspection Diagram

Click or tap on the blue dots to see what we inspect and to learn more:

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