A home inspection is an important step in the home buying process. It helps buyers understand the condition of a property and enables them to negotiate with sellers to resolve problems before closing.
Inspectors take note of every flaw, even seemingly inconsequential ones like chipped paint or surface mold. However, some items can be deal-breakers, leading to a buyer walking away from the purchase.
Structure
Structural inspections are specialized assessments by licensed engineers that examine critical load-bearing elements. They study the property’s foundation, assess grading and drainage issues, and determine whether or not structures like roofs and beams are safe for use.
Many structural problems aren’t readily apparent, particularly if they’ve been repaired. To help her clients understand what’s important, Archer breaks her reports into action items, “for your information” considerations, and big-ticket items to ask the seller to fix. This structure helps make the report less overwhelming and prevents high-priority issues from getting lost in a sea of smaller concerns.
Roof
A home inspector evaluates the condition of a house’s roof and any issues that may impact its function, such as missing shingles; shingle granule loss that can cause clogged gutters; and overall age and UV damage to the shingles. They also look at the gutters and chimney, if there is one.
A home inspection is a crucial step in the homebuying process and can help you negotiate with the seller. Having problems repaired can save you money and headaches once you move in. It also ensures that the property meets minimum safety standards set by mortgage lenders.
Electrical
Home inspectors look at the electrical panel, wiring and outlets to make sure they’re safe. They can also evaluate ceiling fans and light fixtures.
Inspectors will check to see that outlets are properly grounded, which protects appliances and people from electrical fires. They will also test GFCI outlets (which are required in rooms with moisture such as bathrooms and kitchens) to ensure they’re functioning properly.
Electrical deficiencies are one of the most common problems found during a home inspection. However, cosmetic issues such as outdated light fixtures or a damaged switch plate should not be expected to be fixed by a seller at the request of a buyer.
Plumbing
Home inspectors check a house’s plumbing systems, look for signs of leaks and test water pressure. They also examine the hot water heater and any gutters or rain guards.
Buyers may ask for price decreases or credits based on problems that home inspections uncover, but sellers are not required to make repairs. Some buyers may request that professionals be contracted to complete repair work.
Homebuyers are not required to attend home inspections, but many find them useful and informative. If you do attend, take notes and pay close attention to the inspector’s comments.
Insulation
A home inspector should never open walls or dismantle appliances. This is considered a safety hazard and may violate licensing regulations. If a problem is discovered that is not readily accessible, the home inspector should recommend further evaluation by a qualified professional.
Some problems found during a home inspection, like a worn-out roof or a cracked foundation, can be deal-breakers. But others, like peeling wallpaper or a leaky bathroom sink, aren’t necessarily going to kill a sale. It all depends on the specific circumstances and what buyers are willing to compromise on.
Appliances
During the home inspection, the inspector will check that appliances like stoves and refrigerators are working properly. The inspector will also look for any signs of damage to these appliances.
The home inspector will also check that windows and doors are functioning properly. This includes ensuring frames are secure, caulking is intact and that windows and doors close properly. If a window is broken or damaged, the inspector will note this in the report.
Interior
A home inspection is a critical part of the home buying process. It can reveal problems that a buyer may not be aware of and save the buyer money by avoiding costly repairs after moving in.
Inspectors look for leaning walls, staining ceilings and insufficient insulation or ventilation. They check that range hoods vent to the outside and that bathroom sinks, tubs and showers function properly.
Whether or not to ask the seller for repairs after a home inspection depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the problem and the market conditions. Some problems are considered cosmetic and will not be repaired, while others require significant investment.