Home Inspection is a critical part of the process of buying a new house. It gives buyers a clear understanding of the condition of a property and helps them negotiate with sellers regarding necessary repairs. Buyers can then use the information gleaned from the home inspection to decide whether to proceed with the purchase, ask for price reductions or walk away from the deal. Discover more details by click here.
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), a standard home inspection should cover:
The structure and condition of the roof, including leaks, missing or damaged shingles; the chimney, vents and flue; the attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors and windows; the foundation and basement. The home inspector should also check to see that the heating and air systems are functioning properly, that there is adequate water pressure and that the plumbing is in good shape and not leaking. The home inspector should also test the GFCIs (ground fault interrupters) in each room of the house, as well as look at the garage and make sure that the door opens and shuts easily.
Structural issues are one of the biggest reasons why people seek a home inspection. If left untreated, these problems can cause major damage and safety hazards. A home inspector will be able to spot these problems and provide an estimate for the cost of repair.
The home inspector will also evaluate the condition of the driveway, sidewalks and curbs, as well as the yard, garden and swimming pool. They will also go inside the garage and look at the door, frame and floor; inspect the interior electrical system; examine the appliances; check for radon and carbon monoxide; and test the smoke detectors. It is important for the home inspector to have access to every part of the property, so if areas are inaccessible (locked door, clutter or furniture blocking the way) or unsafe (severely steep roof, unstable foundation) the inspector will note that these areas cannot be inspected.
As part of the home inspection, the inspector will also test the grounding and bonding for the electrical system; look at the garage door and the opener; and examine the attic ladder and the crawl space. They will also take moisture readings from the masonry walls and basement.
It is advisable for the homebuyer to attend the home inspection, as this will give them an opportunity to learn more about the property from the inspector and ask questions. It is also an excellent idea to get a first-hand look at any problems that the inspector uncovers, as this will help them decide how serious the problem is and how to proceed.
Many prospective homeowners consider waiving the home inspection in order to compete with other offers, but this can be a big mistake. A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make, and a quality home inspection can protect them from costly surprises down the road. By making a few simple preparations before the inspection, potential buyers can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.