A home inspection is an important step in buying a new house. It gives you information about the condition of the home and helps you negotiate with the seller. But how do you know which inspector to choose? Your real estate agent might have suggestions, but you should also do your own research. Check out online reviews and ask for samples of previous reports. And make sure the inspector is certified by a professional association such as the American Society of Home Inspectors. Inspectors should be impartial and not take sides, so they can recommend the best course of action for buyers, learn more to expand your knowledge.
A good inspector will inspect a wide range of items, including the roof, foundation, heating and cooling systems, electrical wiring, appliances, water heater and plumbing. They will look at the structural integrity of the building, checking for signs of damage or movement and ensuring that stairs, railings and gates are in good condition. The electrical system will be tested, and the fuses and circuit breakers will be examined to ensure that they are working properly. The plumbing will be checked for leaks, proper hot and cold temperatures and functioning sinks, bathtubs and showers.
Structural issues are a major concern, as they can affect the safety of a house and lead to expensive repairs. Your inspector will check for things such as dampness in basements and crawl spaces, the presence of wood destroying organisms (termites) and any signs of damage or wear in the foundation. They will also take a look at the roof, examining shingles and flashing for damage or signs of aging. They will look at the vents and chimneys to ensure they are in good condition, as well as the drainage system and septic tank.
Some inspectors will not comment on aesthetic details, such as paint color or stains on the ceiling, unless they indicate a problem with the structure. Others may go into more detail, such as pointing out that a stain on the ceiling is caused by water damage and could be expensive to fix.
A thorough home inspection will take at least two hours, as the inspector must carefully examine every part of the property. But it is worth the investment, as it can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and prevent unexpected surprises after you move in.
In addition to highlighting potential problems, the report can help you decide how serious they are and whether to walk away from the deal or request that the seller make the repairs. It can also give you a leg up in negotiations with the seller by showing the amount of work that will be required. If a problem is significant, you can ask the seller to lower the price of the home or offer a credit at closing, which can be used towards the cost of making the necessary repairs. However, if the problem is minor and can be easily fixed, you can decide to accept the home as-is.