According to data from Housezo, a home inspection can save the average homebuyer up to $14,000 in possible repairs. Furthermore, many people leverage home inspection reports to gain a favorable offer, thus delivering a significant ROI on their investment.
Unfortunately, some things need to be clarified about what a home inspection covers, which has led people to forgo an inspection for a favorable offer in recent years.
This guide will explain what home inspections cover so you understand why you need one
What Is a Home Inspection?
A general home inspection is a thorough assessment of a home’s condition that provides buyers and sellers with a detailed list of all known defects and potential future repairs.
This report covers almost every inch of the property, from the foundation to the roof, so that both parties gain an unbiased view of the property they are transacting.
Home inspections look for general structural concerns but do dive deeper into other aspects, such as appliances, HVAC systems, and more. For more specific inspections around septic tanks, water quality, and mold, a separate inspection will need to be ordered to assess these features.
When Is a Home Inspection Conducted?
The buyer orders a home inspection once a deposit has been placed and before appraisal. This step helps buyers avoid costly repairs and defects not disclosed by sellers so that they can negotiate a lower rate or schedule the repairs before the sale.
Sellers may also order a pre-listing inspection before bringing their property to market to get any repairs taken care of so it doesn’t delay the sale of a home.
What Does a Home Inspection Check For?
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a homeowner preparing to sell, understanding what a home inspection checks for can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises. Here is what you can expect from your home inspection report.
1. Structural Integrity
One of the primary concerns in any home inspection is the property’s structural integrity.
Some areas the inspector will examine to determine their structural soundness include:
- Foundation
- Walls
- Roof
- Flooring
- Framing
To determine if there is any damage, your inspector will look for signs of settling, cracks in the foundation, sagging roofs, or uneven floors, all of which could indicate serious structural problems. Structural issues can be costly to repair and may even render a home unsafe, so this is a critical part of the inspection.
2. Roof Condition
Roofs are one of the most expensive parts of a home to fix and often the most common reason for failed inspection reports. Inspectors will check the roof for signs of wear and tear, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, and the condition of the gutters and downspouts. They will also assess the roof’s age and estimate how much longer it might last based on local conditions and the materials used.
3. Plumbing System
Plumbing can often be an unexpected reason for failed inspection reports, so we strongly urge sellers to get their plumbing system inspected with a pre-listing inspection.
Your inspector will check for water pressure, the condition of pipes, and any signs of leaks, corrosion, or water damage. They will also assess the condition of fixtures, toilets, sinks, and water heaters.
Plumbing problems can lead to extensive damage and expensive repairs if not addressed, making this a key area of focus.
4. Electrical System
Many older homes in Northeast Pennsylvania still use outdated knob-and-tube wiring that is not up to code. The inspector will examine the type of wiring used and the electrical panel, outlets, and switches to ensure they are up to code and functioning correctly.
5. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems
Energy efficiency is a huge topic of focus among many home buyers in today’s market.
A general home inspection will assess the furnace, air conditioning units, ductwork, and ventilation systems to search for signs of cracks, leaks, or malfunctioning equipment that needs to be replaced.
6. Insulation and Ventilation
A general inspection of the attic, basement, and crawl spaces will determine whether or not insulation needs to be upgraded or is damaged. Inspectors will also search for signs of poor ventilation, which could necessitate repairs.
7. Exterior and Grounds
The exterior of the home will also take up a good deal of focus and is often the first place that many inspectors begin. Your inspector will examine the following to look for signs of damage, such as wood rot, separation, and cracks:
- Porches
- Decks
- Sheds
- Downspouts
- Nearby trees that might be dangerous
8. Appliances
These will also be inspected if the home includes appliances like a stove, dishwasher, or washer and dryer. Your inspector will look to see if these appliances function correctly or have any signs of damage that may require replacement.
9. Safety Features
Finally, the inspector will determine whether or not the proper safety features are present and functioning in your home, such as a smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, and fire extinguisher.
Unfortunately, when most people search for a home, they do nothing more than a basic eyeball test to determine if it’s liveable. However, most are not trained or knowledgeable enough to spot clear signs of damage and danger, even when they are right in front of our faces.
A home inspection is the only way to get a thorough and unbiased assessment of the condition of a home you are looking to buy or sell. Using this information, you can walk away from a deal that is not right or make the necessary repairs to get a deal completed.
FAQs
What happens if the home inspection reveals problems?
If the inspection uncovers significant issues, the buyer and seller may negotiate repairs, price reductions, or other terms to address the problems. In some cases, the buyer may choose to walk away from the deal.
How long does a home inspection take?
A typical home inspection takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property.
Can a home fail an inspection?
Homes don’t “pass” or “fail” an inspection. Instead, the inspection report highlights any issues or concerns, which can then be addressed by the buyer and seller.