A house inspection is a visual exam of the property that is typically conducted by a certified home inspector, which can help buyers and sellers understand the condition of the house. Depending on the scope of the inspection, the results can highlight problems that might need to be addressed immediately and/or give insight into a potential home’s overall value.
A typical inspection lasts two to three hours for single-family homes; co-ops and condos may take less time. After the inspection is complete, the home inspector provides a written report within a day or so. A buyer, seller and real estate agent can then review the report together to discuss any issues that come up.
When reviewing the report, it’s important to prioritize the problems that need to be addressed. It’s also important to have an estimate of how much a problem might cost to fix so that you can negotiate with the seller for either a lower purchase price, for repairs or for credit towards closing costs.
During the home inspection, the inspector will look at the outside of the house to check for cracks in the foundation, stucco or siding; rot or decay in the roof; gutters and downspouts; and proper clearance between the siding and dirt. They will also inspect the windows, doors and trim to make sure they are in good shape and that there are no leaks or signs of moisture.
The inspector will also test the plumbing for any visible leaks, check faucets and shower heads for function and water pressure, and examine the electric system to ensure that the wiring is up to code and free from hazards. They will also check the HVAC systems to make sure they are running properly and that there are no carbon monoxide or gas leaks. The inspector will also check the fireplace to see if it is a fire hazard and the garage to see if it has proper ventilation.
Before a house inspection, the homeowner should prepare by turning on all utilities and clearing items that might block their access to areas of the house. They should also remove any pets from the home before the inspector arrives. It’s also a good idea to replace the air filters in the HVAC system and clear clutter from the attic, basement and closets.
If the homeowner has a pre-listing home inspection done before placing it on the market, they can make fixes to improve their chances of getting the highest offer and avoiding any costly surprises during escrow. It is also a good idea to have a specialized inspection for things like the presence of Radon, termite infestations, asbestos, lead paint and mold. A home inspector will recommend a specialist to perform these tests. If these are discovered, the homeowner can choose to negotiate with the buyer for a lower purchase price or request that the seller pay for a professional to complete the required repairs. However, if the problems are serious enough to jeopardize the sale, it is a good idea to walk away from the deal.