Make Sure Your Dock Is Safe

Residential dock inspections for waterfront property owners in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

If you own or are buying a waterfront property in Hot Springs, your dock is a major feature that needs regular attention. Docks are exposed to water, weather, and constant use, which leads to rotting wood, rusted hardware, unstable flotation, and deteriorating electrical components. A dock inspection helps you identify safety risks and maintenance needs before someone gets hurt or the structure fails.

Mike Thomas Home Inspector evaluates the condition of framing members, decking boards, flotation systems, support posts, metal hardware, and visible electrical components. The inspection focuses on what can be seen and tested during a visual walkthrough. You receive a report with photos and descriptions of any damage, wear, or safety concerns. This is especially useful for buyers purchasing lake properties or for owners preparing for seasonal use.

If you're buying a home with a dock in Hot Springs or want to assess the condition of your existing structure, contact Mike Thomas Home Inspector to schedule your inspection.

What the Inspection Covers on the Water

During the inspection in Hot Springs, the focus is on structural stability, material condition, and visible safety hazards. The inspector walks the dock to check for loose boards, cracked framing, rusted bolts, damaged flotation barrels, and unstable connections. Electrical components such as outlets, lights, and wiring conduit are visually inspected for damage or improper installation. The inspection typically takes about an hour depending on the size and complexity of the dock.

After the inspection, you receive documentation of any rot, corrosion, instability, or safety concerns that need attention. The report includes photos so you can see where problems are located and what repairs might be required. This is helpful when negotiating a purchase or planning maintenance before summer.

The inspection does not include underwater evaluation, structural load testing, or invasive disassembly of components. It focuses on what is visible from the deck and shoreline. The findings are meant to inform your decision-making, not to serve as an engineering assessment.

What Property Owners Want to Know

Waterfront property buyers and owners often have questions about what a dock inspection includes and what types of issues are most common.

What parts of the dock are inspected?
The inspection covers framing, decking, support posts, flotation systems, hardware, and visible electrical components. You receive a report documenting the condition of each area with photos.
How long does a dock inspection take?
Most inspections take about an hour, depending on the size of the dock and the number of components that need evaluation. Larger or more complex structures may take longer.
What are the most common problems found during dock inspections?
Common issues include rotting wood, rusted bolts and brackets, damaged flotation barrels, unstable decking, and improperly installed electrical wiring. These problems can create safety hazards if not addressed.
Can the inspector evaluate underwater supports?
No, the inspection is limited to what can be seen from the dock and shoreline. Underwater components require a different type of assessment by a marine specialist.
When should I schedule a dock inspection?
You should schedule before purchasing a waterfront property or at the start of each season if you own a dock. This helps you identify maintenance needs before they become safety issues.

Mike Thomas Home Inspector works with waterfront property owners throughout central Arkansas, including lake communities near Hot Springs. If you want to assess the safety and condition of your dock before purchase or seasonal use, learn more about scheduling your inspection.