Home inspection is one of the most important steps in the purchase of a new house or condo. It provides a professional evaluation of a property’s condition and helps identify conditions that may require costly repairs in the future. Home inspections are generally required when buying a single-family home, townhouse or multi-family unit and are recommended in co-op and condo purchases as well.
The home inspection process usually takes a couple of hours. This is because the inspector needs to go through every room of the house, climb on the roof and test everything from electrical outlets to the heating system. It is always a good idea for the buyer to be present during the home inspection. This will allow them to ask the inspector questions and will give them a better understanding of the report after it is complete.
A qualified, licensed home inspector is an expert in evaluating a home’s overall condition. They will examine the structure, systems and components of the house and provide you with a written report detailing their findings. Some of the things that will be evaluated include:
Walls and ceilings – the inspector will look for discoloration, cracks, water damage, mold and structural damage. They will also check windows, doors and walls for proper operation, as well as identifying any safety issues like fire hazards or uneven surfaces.
Plumbing – the inspector will evaluate pipes, drains, hot water temperature and more. They will also check for functioning toilets, bathtubs and showers. The inspector will also check the attic for insulation and ventilation. The furnace and air conditioning will be tested as well.
Electrical – the inspector will test for proper wiring, lighting and connections to appliances and utilities. The inspector will also test the operation of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
The exterior of the house will be inspected for damage, signs of rot and other items that can affect the overall value of the home. Items such as fences, gutters and downspouts will also be assessed for condition and function.
Typically, the cost of the home inspection will vary depending on where you live and how busy your real estate market is. It is also a good idea to get multiple price quotes, and make sure the inspector is licensed and insured. Your agent should have suggestions and referrals for a good inspector, and you can also find an inspector in our Agent Finder tool by searching for “home inspector”.
After the inspection is completed, the buyer can decide what they want to fix or negotiate with the seller. They should also have a clear understanding of what items are considered normal wear and tear, and what they can use to leverage against the seller in their negotiations.
If you are selling a home, it is a good idea to make any necessary repairs before the inspection. This will ensure that the home will sell quickly and will be a more accurate reflection of its condition. You should also declutter the home, turn on all the utilities and remove any animals or debris from the property to make it easier for the inspector to access.