Ready to buy? Better call the inspector
A house is probably the biggest purchase you'll ever make, so when you buy a home it's important to be sure your potential new home has a proper home inspection before you sign the papers. Getting a qualified home inspector can be an important first step.
A home inspector is a qualified professional who visually inspects the structure and components of a home and looks for any immediate or potential problems. They provide a written report to you with a description of problem areas and may also include recommendations for further evaluation.
You can go over the report with your real estate agent to decide how the results may affect the purchase of your potential home.
What they inspect
Home inspection requirements vary greatly from state to state, but the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) has a Standards of Practice page that outlines minimum and uniform standards that you should expect from an inspection. They include the following:
Structural elements: Construction of visible foundation, evidence of sagging or bowing of the structure, and window alignment
Safety: Operating fire and carbon monoxide alarms, fire sprinklers, condition of stairs, hand and guardrails, and garage door openers
Grounds: Leaks from septic tank, proper drainage, and condition of the house's driveways, fences, and sidewalks
Roof: Condition of shingles, any repairs/patches to flat roofs, clear vents, damage to chimneys, and properly working gutters
Exterior surfaces: Correct clearance between ground and siding material, condition of exterior paint or siding, and properly working lights and electrical outlets
Attic: Sufficient insulation, proper ventilation, and any sign of leaking or water damage
Interior plumbing: No damaged or leaking pipes, proper hot water temperature, as well as functioning toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and showers
Electrical system: Up-to-code condition and type of visible wiring, and proper function of circuit breakers, outlets, light fixtures, and fans
Appliances: Proper function of stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, washer and dryer, and all other appliances
Heating and cooling systems: Condition of furnace, air conditioning (temperature permitting), water heater, chimney, and fireplace
Basement: Solid foundation, walls, and floors, with no signs of water intrusion or damage
Garage: Solid foundation, windows, ceiling, framing, and roof; working garage door opener; up-to-code electrical system; and proper function of outlets
What they don't inspect
Again, while there is variation of what home inspectors look for, there are areas that are generally not covered by a home inspection. If you suspect any problems or concerns in the following areas, you may want to schedule an evaluation by a certified specialist:
Pest control
Swimming pools
Asbestos
Radon gas
Lead paint
Toxic mold
Finding a home inspector
Be sure you are comfortable with your choice of home inspector. They are extremely important and can help you detect and avoid major pitfalls in the home buying process.
Talk to your real estate professional. They may be able to recommend a home inspector that they have worked with in the past and trust.
Ask friends and family. If you know anyone who has recently gone through the home buying process, they may have a good recommendation.
Look for accredited affiliations. Consumers should look for an inspector who has an affiliation with groups such as the National Institute of Building Inspectors, the American Society of Home Inspectors, and the International Society of Certified Home Inspectors. These are some of the most reputable inspector associations, and their websites have a "find an inspector" service to locate a member in your area.
Making a major purchase such as a house requires a dedicated team. Besides your real estate professional and lender, a home inspector is critical to helping make sure your team is complete. Be sure to educate yourself about the process and find a home inspector you can trust.
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