Most buyers request a home inspection as a condition of their offer. While a home inspector will dig more deeply into your home than a buyer, the preparation you made before your first showing should help you get ready for the inspection. Before the home inspector visits, I’ll provide personalized advice too.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a thorough review of your home’s structure and systems by a professional home inspector. A buyer can use the inspection report to decide to rescind their offer if a major issue is uncovered, or to request repairs if the contract is contingent on a satisfactory report. In some cases, a home inspection is solely for the buyer’s information and can’t be used to negotiate.
What is looked at during a home inspection?
The inspector will check:
- Structural conditions such as the foundation, beams, and floors
- Roof condition
- Mechanical systems such as heat and air conditioning
- Appliances – to make sure they’re working, although some inspectors skip appliances that are not built-in
- Plumbing – for leaks, rust, and water pressure
- Electrical systems such as grounded outlets and code violations
- Safety issues such as stairs, handrails, mold, or chimney maintenance
What’s not looked at during a home inspection?
The inspector won’t check some items that are unusual or inaccessible, such as:
- Septic systems
- Wells
- Underground pipes and sprinkler systems
- Swimming pools and spas
- Playground equipment
How should I prepare for an inspection?
Before the home inspector arrives, you should:
- Clean your house.
- Remove or crate your pets.
- Make sure all your lightbulbs work.
- Empty your washing machine, dryer, oven, and dishwasher – in case they are inspected.
- Make sure everything is accessible, including your attic, crawlspace, garage, and any sheds.
- Leave a note if anything doesn’t work and explain that you’re getting it fixed.
- Provide documents about maintenance and repairs.
- Leave your phone number for the inspector.
- Leave the house.
What happens now?
Once the inspection report has been generated, we’ll discuss how to handle any possible issues a buyer mentions. We can negotiate with the buyer, decide to fix an item, provide money for the buyer to fix it, or provide documentation that the problem has already been addressed. I can help you handle any inspection issues as they arise.