What should you expect from your home inspection– There are many common questions about the home inspection process. Who pays for the inspection? What will the inspector look for? What is the difference between an inspection and an appraisal? Here is what you can expect from your home inspection.
Who pays for the inspection? A home inspection can be done for a buyer or a seller. A seller may choose to have a home inspection done before putting their home on the market. This is a great selling tool. It brings to light any unknown conditions that can be addressed in advance. The homeowner then has confidence that they have a good understanding of the condition of their home. By taking away the unknowns, buyer prospects will have confidence in the home and view the seller as an attentive homeowner. It will help get the top dollar for the home and simplify the selling process. The seller can provide the buyer with a copy of the inspection report. One caution for buyers relying on a seller inspection report: the inspection was done for the seller. If any conditions are discovered that were missed or misreported by the inspector, the buyer will have no recourse with the inspector. If a buyer receives an inspection report done on behalf of another party the buyer can still have their own inspection performed.
It is most common for a buyer to pay for an inspection (at the time the inspection is done). The inspection will be completed on the buyer’s behalf. The inspector’s job is to report on the conditions observed-for good or bad. An inspection report will be provided that details all areas inspected. If the buyer finds a condition that they feel the inspector missed or misreported, the inspector will have a responsibility to resolve the concern with the buyer.
What will the inspector look for? The inspector will inspect the exterior of the home, the roof, the interior, the attic and crawlspace/basement. They will look for areas of current or potential dry rot, leaks and damage. They will evaluate the heating/cooling, electrical and plumbing systems. They will check for signs of settling and structural issues. The inspector will provide a full report of all areas inspected. In addition to reading the inspection report, it is a good idea to consult with the inspector at the property to ask questions and have the inspector point out areas of concern. The inspector may recommend that specialists be called in for further evaluation on systems such as roof, heating/cooling, electrical, plumbing, etc.
What is the difference between an inspection and an appraisal? An inspection is a full inspection of the home for the purpose of reporting the conditions of its components. An appraisal is for the purpose of establishing value for the property. It will take into account the general condition of the home.
Understanding the condition of a home is an important part of the home buying process. Don’t hesitate to ask the inspector questions and consult with other contractors and experts.
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