What Does a Home Inspection Cover?
Are you ready to sell? Are you looking to purchase? Someone will have to inspect the property before either of these situations. A home inspection is primarily designed to accomplish this goal.
What is a Home Inspection?
Home inspections are a way to assess the safety and quality of a property before it is sold. The inspector will check the structure of the house, the heating and cooling system, the plumbing, the electrical work, the water and the sewage systems to make sure they are working properly. Fire and safety issues are also evaluated, as well as damages and other factors that could affect the value of the property.
When should you have a home inspection?
Do you plan to buy or sell a home? Each buyer should be confident that their purchase is financially sound. Home inspections reveal safety and maintenance issues that can lead to serious problems and costs down the line. Inspections allow everyone to understand the property’s condition and the associated risks.
What is covered by a home inspection?
Home inspections play a vital role in the process of buying a home. What do home inspectors check for? It’s basically everything that is needed to make a house livable. Here are a few essentials.
- Structure – The inspector will look for any cracks or damage to the exterior, such as missing siding or roofing problems. This could cause water damage or pest infestation. The foundation will be examined if visible.
- Interior – The inspector will inspect the interior of the house for signs of damage, such as damaged cabinets, walls, windows and other visible features.
- Plumbing – This inspection will include a look for leaks and check that the faucets, toilets and shower heads are working. It will also ensure that exposed pipes have not been damaged or are no longer in a safe condition.
- Electrical – An inspector will check all outlets, ensure that ground circuit interrupters are in working order and inspect the electrical panel to identify any potential problems.
- Air – This inspection includes your HVAC system, ductwork and furnace (if applicable) to make sure they are working.
- Fire Safety – Inspector will test smoke detectors and identify potential fire hazards.
So make sure the property is ready for a home inspector if you are about to sell your house.
What can cause a home to fail an inspection?
When a home inspection is deemed a failure, it means that the inspector identified at least one serious problem with the house. Here are some issues that can cause a home inspection to fail:
- Roof damage can be anything from a few missing tiles to extensive water damage.
- Electrical problems – Any electrical component that is not working properly or a hazard such as frayed wiring can cause a failure.
- Plumbing problems – Leaks, heaters that don’t work and sewer problems can all result in a failed inspection.
- Pests – Damage caused by termites, vermin and other pests may result in a failing inspection.
- Mold – This is usually associated with water damage. It can also lead to inspection failure.
What happens when a home fails an inspection?
Potential buyers can take action if a home inspection reveals serious problems.
- Buyers can request a reduction in price or credit for the purchase. A price adjustment or credit is intended to be used to correct any issues that were found during the inspection.
- A buyer may ask the seller to repair any problems. Buyers may request that professionals make repairs depending on the nature and severity of the problem.
- If the inspection fails, the buyer can walk away, thinking that there are better homes available on the market.
What is the home inspector not allowed to do?
Home inspectors play a vital role in the buying process. However, they may overstep their boundaries. Home inspectors shouldn’t offer services beyond the inspection. They should never off to make repairs or renovations to a house they have inspected themselves. An inspector should also not cause any damage to the home or inspect systems such as pools or hot tubs. They should also not test systems that the seller has indicated do not work. Home inspectors are not allowed to give advice or estimate on issues that have been found. If the inspector discovers an electrical issue, they cannot diagnose its cause. In general, the inspector is only allowed to provide objective information on the components relevant to the inspection.
What is the cost of a home inspection?
The cost of a home inspection can vary depending on the type of house and its location. Americans on average spend between $275 to $400 per inspection. The buyer is the one who usually schedules the inspection. They will pay for it in most cases. The majority of inspections take only a few minutes. Inspectors may not be available for weeks in busy areas. It is important that buyers schedule inspections as early as possible, especially if you want to get to the closing faster.
How to choose a reliable home inspector
A real estate agent who has worked in the area for a while will know a few home inspectors and can recommend one that they trust. Referrals from trusted friends or family is another option. If you are looking for an inspector, ensure they have the right certification.