While inspections are completely optional, we’re going to always be on team “have the inspection.” When compared to the financial commitment you’re making by purchasing the property, a few hours and a few hundred dollars for the peace of mind are priceless. This process can uncover major issues with the home only identifiable by someone with a trained eye. Thanks for listening to our Ted Talk, now let’s go over what you need to know before inspection day arrives.
What a home inspection is. (And isn’t.)
What it is.
A home inspection is a thorough review of the property conducted by a licensed inspector—the results of which will be documented in the inspection report. During this on-site appointment, your inspector will look at the structure, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and even appliances to determine their current condition and identify any potential issues. The home inspector will also provide recommendations for repairs or upgrades if necessary.
What it isn’t.
It should be noted, the difference between an INSPECTION and an APPRAISAL. An appraisal is performed by your lender to attach a market-value amount to your home. But, an inspection is initiated by you, for the the purpose of better understanding the property you’re investing in. They’re both assessing the property, but for completely different reasons.
An inspection is also not all-encompassing. You’re getting an overall look at the property from a person who knows a lot about a lot of things, but may not know everything about everything. (Think of them as general practitioners, not specialists.) They’re also limited by time, which is usually only a few hours to look at everything. So, there may still be things missed, or identified but need a deeper dive by a specialist. Your home inspection may be where you start, but not where you finish.
What’s included in a home inspection.
It covers a wide range of areas within a property, including both the interior and exterior of the home. Your inspector will evaluate the following:
- Structural Components: The inspector will assess the condition of the foundation, roof, walls, and other structural elements. They will find signs of damage, deterioration, or settling and report any issues they find.
- Electrical Systems: They evaluate the electrical systems, including the wiring, circuit breaker, and electrical panels. They will look for any damage, improper installation, or outdated electrical systems that may pose a safety hazard.
- Plumbing and HVAC Systems: The plumbing and HVAC systems will be examined, including pipes, water heaters, and air conditioning units. Inspectors will identify any leaks, clogs, or malfunctions and provide recommendations for repairs if necessary.
- Common Areas Examination: The home inspector will thoroughly examine the common areas of the home, including kitchens and bathrooms, to evaluate the functionality of fixtures, appliances, and flooring, as well as the walls, ceilings, and windows for any issues and document any concerns in their report.
- Optional Add-Ons: Your inspector may offer supplementary services, like a detailed pest evaluation, or radon testing. If you have any suspicions, or something comes up during the inspection, you may be able to use your general inspector to get a more detailed report.
