Infrared imaging, sometimes called thermography, combines technical knowledge with specialized equipment as part of a home inspection to help identify problems “trapped” in the walls, ceilings and floors.

Moisture, perhaps leaking through a section of the roof or from a plumbing leak, can leave a “cooler” spot on the camera imaging allowing the inspector to alert you to a smaller issue before they become bigger problems.

Look at the image below and notice the “cooler” spot, which was a condensation leak found in a fairly new home. The leak was not visible or had not seeped through the ceiling. However, it was clearly visible with the infrared camera and with other tools such as a pro-meter (moisture detector), which was reading 20% moisture in the ceiling. We were able to catch this problem so the builder can correct it.

Photos courtesy Peter Zipp © 2006
Photos show condensate leak found in the ceiling of a fairly new home.