A Home Inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a residential building. It is typically conducted for the purpose of determining the current condition of the building, as well as identifying any major issues that need to be addressed. Home inspections are also frequently performed before the sale of a property, to provide a buyer with a more complete picture of what they’re purchasing,read more to expand your knowledge.
A home inspector is trained to spot a range of issues, from structural problems like a sagging roof or improper foundation to electrical and plumbing safety hazards such as outdated knob-and-tube wiring or poorly grounded outlets. They can also detect common environmental problems, such as radon, carbon monoxide and mold.
While a home inspection is not designed to give the house a pass or fail grade, it can present serious concerns that will affect your decision to buy the house, particularly if you have a contingency in your offer that requires a satisfactory home inspection. If the house fails the inspection, it’s your choice whether to ask the seller to make repairs or back out of the deal entirely.
Homebuyers often fall in love with a property based on its aesthetics or location, but they may not realize the full extent of the maintenance that’s required to keep it in good shape, or the potential hazards that can lurk behind the walls. “People get emotionally attached to a property and don’t want to hear that it might need major work,” says Home Inspector Mark Haskett, president of the National Association of Real Estate Inspectors (NARIE).
A qualified home inspector can help you understand what to expect from your purchase, and identify any major issues that need to be addressed. He or she will also explain the condition of the home’s interior and exterior, and give you a better idea of its overall value.
Many homebuyers are surprised to learn that even newer homes can have safety hazards. Typically, these relate to old or faulty electrical wiring, such as knob-and-tube and aluminum branch circuits, which are potentially dangerous and must be replaced. Other hazards can include faulty fireplace spark arrestors, improperly installed or non-functioning smoke detectors and septic system violations, such as failed drain fields or failing leach lines.
As part of the home buying process, it’s a good idea to accompany the inspector as he or she checks out the property. Not only will this give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the house and its systems, but it’ll also allow you to ask questions about anything that isn’t clear in the written report. You might be able to use this information during negotiations with the seller, or to ask your builder or contractor for estimates on how much it will cost to fix the problem after you move in. And don’t forget to request that the home inspector test for radon, carbon monoxide and lead paint. While not all of these are legal requirements in every state, they’re important for your health and safety.