What Happens at a Home Inspection and Should I Have One Done?

A home inspection is a professionals evaluation of a properties overall condition. During an inspection, a licensed inspector will evaluate the properties condition, focusing on major systems and structures. They will look for defects or potential issues and provide you with a detailed report outlining their findings and recommendations. A home inspection helps buyers understand the overall condition of the home and allows them to make informed decisions. Inspections typically last around 2-4 hours depending on the size and condition of the home, and often buyers attend the last portion of the inspection to ask questions and review the inspectors findings.

Should I Make an Inspection a Condition of my Offer?

A home inspection is often inserted as a condition of an offer; once the offer is accepted, the inspection is then completed during the specified timeframe for that condition. In the current competitive market we are in, we are seeing many inspections being completed prior to making an offer on a property. The benefit of completing the inspection prior to offering is that you as a buyer know exactly what you are getting into with the property, allowing you to make an informed decision with your offer. Having a pre-inspection done also works in a buyers favour as they will not need to insert a condition of a home inspection into their offer to purchase, making their offer more competitive.

Key Elements of a Home Inspection

1. Exterior:

• Roof: The inspector will check the roof for any signs of damage, wear, or leaks.

• Foundation: The foundation will be inspected for cracks or other structural issues.

• Siding and Windows: The condition of the siding, windows, and any exterior doors will be assessed for damage or wear.

• Grading: The grading around the home will be inspected to see if it is sloped towards or away from the foundation.

2. Interior:

• Electrical Systems: The inspector will check the electrical panel, outlets, and wiring to ensure they are up to code and functioning properly.

• Plumbing Systems: This includes inspecting pipes, drains, water heaters, and other plumbing fixtures for leaks or issues.

• HVAC Systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems will be checked for proper operation and maintenance.

3. Structural Components:

• Attic and Insulation: The inspector will examine the attic for proper insulation and ventilation, as well as any signs of water damage or pest infestations.

• Basement and Crawl Spaces: These areas will be inspected for moisture, mold, and structural integrity.

4. Safety Features:

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: The inspector will ensure these devices are present and functioning correctly.

• Stairways and Railings: The safety and stability of stairways and railings will be checked.

5. Appliances:

• Appliances: The inspector will typically run the appliances to ensure they are all functioning properly.

The Home Inspection Process

1. Scheduling the Inspection:

• Once the offer to purchase is accepted, the buyer schedules a home inspection with an inspector of their choosing.

2. Attending the Inspection:

• Buyers are encouraged to attend the inspection to ask questions and get a firsthand understanding of any issues. The inspection typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property and buyers usually are able to attend the second half of the inspection.

3. Receiving the Report:

• After the inspection, the inspector will provide a detailed report outlining their findings. This report will include descriptions and photos of any issues, as well as recommendations for repairs or further evaluations.

4. Reviewing the Findings:

• The buyer reviews the report with their realtor to understand the implications of the findings. Depending on what the inspection reveals, the buyer may satisfy their condition, negotiate price or repairs, or, in some cases, withdraw from the purchase agreement.

Your friend in real estate, 

Sheyla Duncan