U.S. Department of Energy Recommends Infrared Inspections

 A publication from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)  says thermographic scans by trained technicians are usually accurate enough to hold up in court.

The recommendation appears in the online version of  a DOE publication titled, "A Consumer's Guide to Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy" (EERE). The publication outlines the benefits of infrared scanning of a house to detect problems with energy efficiency. It goes on to state, "In addition to using thermography during an energy audit, you should have a scan done before purchasing a house; even new houses can have defects in their thermal envelopes." "You may wish to include a clause in the contract requiring a thermographic scan of the house," the publication adds. "A thermographic scan performed by a certified technician is usually accurate enough to use as documentation in court proceedings."

To read the publication, visit www.eere.energy.gov. Enter the keyword "thermography" in the Search/Help box on the upper right-hand side of the screen.

HomeSafe Inspection pioneered the use of infrared technology in home inspections and pest control inspections. HomeSafe's high-powered, customized IR technology, combined with acoustic (listening) sensors, empower inspectors to, in effect, "see" and "hear" through a house's walls, floors and ceilings, uncovering hidden problems that may go undetected in an ordinary visual inspection. HomeSafe has also made the technology affordable through its franchise and lease/licensing program for home inspectors and pest control operators.