CITY OFFERS FREE HOME SAFETY INSPECTIONS TO ITS RESIDENTS

Cape Girardeau's Inspection Services Division is conducting free home safety inspections through February.

The service is available to any homeowner within the city limits.

Rob Roberts, the city's building supervisor, said the program, in its second year, allows city inspectors to share their expertise with residents at no cost.

Inspections take between 30 and 40 minutes and include a comprehensive visual examination of both the interiors and exteriors of homes.

If any problems are discovered, inspectors provide the homeowner with a written report outlining the deficiencies and suggestions for corrections.

No violations will be issued if problems are found.

Inspectors will look at exterior foundations, electrical systems, plumbing, exits, roofs, chimneys, vents, smoke alarms, mechanical items such as water heaters, the proper storage of combustibles and other aspects of home safety.

Residents can call the Inspection Services Division at 334-4466 to schedule a free home inspection.

Inspections will be performed during business hours on weekdays.

The safety inspections do not substitute for inspections required by homeowners who are building or remodeling and require permits.