Protect your investment and get your house inspected before finalizing the purchase contract. It can save you alot of headaches later.
Buying a home is one of the most important investments you will ever make. One way to protect your investment is by having a qualified home inspector inspect your potential home prior to the closing date. The average inspection report is complex, detailed and in-depth.
When selecting an inspector, you should be able to contact references. Their references should be individuals that have used these inspection services and were satisfied with the results. Inspections are confidential and are the property of the person that requested the inspection report, so you won't be able to see an actual home inspection report.
But you can ask to see a sample report in order to make sure that it identifies and answers the questions that you need answered about your potential home. Finally, ask your inspector what their professional credentials are. There are lots of people that consider themselves qualified home inspectors with no building background whatsoever. Look for an inspector that has a background in new home construction, renovation or contracting.
After you select a home inspector, next comes the inspection itself. In my experience, inspectors tend to work from the outside in.
The inspector should actually get up on the roof and thoroughly inspect the roofing, vents and chimneys. Expect them to examine and document what type exterior finish is on the home and the condition of any exterior electrical outlets or faucets. Finally, they will take note of the condition of the driveway.
Next, the inspector examines the furnace and hot water tank for age, quality and condition. The electrical system is checked for the type of wiring, the size of the electrical service and whether or not the electrical panel is outfitted with breaker switches or fuses. The inspector should also check each individual electrical outlet to ensure that they are in good working order. As they go through the house, sinks and toilets will be inspected and any leaks, water damage or mold will be noted in the report.
Moving upwards, the inspector will check the attic area for sufficient insulation as well as for evidence of water damage. The inspection of the roof cavity also allows the inspector to examine the home's structure for structural deficiencies.
The report should be a comprehensive analysis of the entire structure, inside and out. It should identify all problems, whether major or minor. The inspector should be able to give the report some added value by identifying the scope of the repairs required and a time frame for completion of the repairs.
Each home is different, posing new challenges and potential problems. When making the decision to buy, it is a small price to pay for an inspection report especially when you consider that it may save you tens of thousands of dollars in repairs and problems.
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