Home inspections are a crucial element in your home purchase, as they not only uncover major problems that could put an end to the sale, but they also can help detect existing problems that can become contingent on the sale with potential repairs being paid for by the seller. Participating in the home inspection can also be like getting a custom homeowner’s manual in how to maintain and care for your future residence. It’s an important step, and here is how to make the most of it.
Virtual Inspection
As you prepare for your home inspection, you might consider taking a virtual home inspection tour provided by the American Society of Home Inspectors. This is the organization that certifies and provides training for home inspectors. You want to make sure the inspector you retain has been ASHI certified. Ask for referrals for a home inspector from your lender, neighbors and area real estate professionals.
What to Expect
- Typically, the potential buyer pays for the home inspection.
- Participate in the inspection to make sure the job is thorough. You can ask questions and be made aware of problems and potential solutions.
- You can negotiate repair costs with the seller or require the seller make them prior to closing.
- Get the inspection done as early in the process as possible so that any major problems can be uncovered and addressed, or so you can discern if you should walk away.
What an Inspection Includes
Here is generally what a home inspector is evaluating during a home inspection:
- Foundation – viewing base of walls and ceilings in each room looking for shifts or cracks. Are there any compromises, like trees encroaching on the foundation?
- Lot – looking for proper drainage and noting any soggy areas
- Roof – evaluating general appearance, age, condition of materials, and whether any leaks or staining are present
- Exterior – looking for any repairs or repainting needed, viewing the condition of gutters and downspouts, looking for loose boards or wires and noting any presence of asbestos
- Attic – checking for appropriate insulation and roof structure, looking for signs of leaks
- Interior – particularly looking for any leaks around windows and evaluating condition and age of windows
- Basement – paying particular attention to any water or dampness, evaluating adequate insulation
- Electrical – evaluating type and age of system and panel, ensuring all switches work, outlets are grounded, and particularly looking for any malfunctions or visible faults
- Plumbing – evaluating condition and age of pipes, has system been scoped, and are there any unusual noises or clear malfunctions
- Heating and Cooling – evaluating age and condition of furnace and air conditioner, ensuring they are they fully operational
- Odor – looking for unwanted smells that might be a sign of mold or mildew and whether it is fixable or a major problem
What Is Not Included
A traditional inspection does have limits. You may consider having additional inspections for specific things that are not covered, particularly if you have concerns. Here is what is not included:
- Swimming Pools
- House Hazards – mold, radon, lead paint, asbestos and water testing are typically add-ons you can purchase from the inspector.
- Plumbing, Sewer and Septic – these are expensive home infrastructure items and worth some extra attention.
- Structural Issues – if you suspect some underlying issues, it may be best to retain the opinion of a structural engineer.
- Roofing Specifics – if you are not sure of age, and if there is a flat roof in particular, you may want to engage a roofing contractor to take a closer look.
Related Read: Avoiding Unnecessary Homeownership Expenses
