Home Inspection: An Important Step in The Home Buying Process
What Is A Home Inspection?
People often ask what a home inspection is. To answer your question a home inspection is a visual non-invasive snapshot of the condition of the home at the time of the inspection. A home inspection should only be performed by a trained and qualified home inspector. The home inspection should clearly identify potential significant defects that may affect your buying decision. Additionally, the home inspection should identify areas in need of repairs, plus components that are reaching the end of their useful lifespan. The inspection of a typical home usually takes between 2 and 3 hours, depending upon the size and condition of the home.
The home inspection can be a useful negotiating tool. The job of the home inspector is to identify the condition of the residence. The role of the Realtor is to assist you with every other aspect of your home purchase. Always look to a professional real estate agent to advise you what you should and should not ask for that was cited in your home inspection.
What Do Home Inspectors Look At
Home inspectors climb onto the roof, poke around the foundation and crawl space if there is one. They crawl into attic space looking for roof and ceiling structure issues, water condensation or penetration. The inspector looks at the mechanical, plumbing, and electrical system along with the building’s interior components and finishes. Home inspectors also walk around the exterior of the property and look at a long list of this from the grading to the windows/doors and the exterior of the home. Pretty much looking at everything from the roots or foundation up. The inspector may also include general comments about cosmetic issues along with providing recommendations on all issues found and ips on maintaining the home.
A full home inspection is very comprehensive. Here are some areas it will include:
Roof
Inspecting the roof will include looking for roof penetrations or damage, possible leaks and issues with vents, flashing, skylights, chimneys, trim, gutters and downspouts. They will also look at your eaves and soffits and fascia.
Foundation
Foundation damage can be very expensive to repair. An inspector will look for evidence of damage such as cracks, water penetration or foundation movement. They will check the exterior, basement and any crawl spaces.
Exterior
It’s important to have the exterior items of your potential home inspected. That is why a home inspector will check any decks, porches, walkways and railings. They will also look at the garage or shed, check the garage door opener and ensure it is properly ventilated. A full inspection of your yard’s grading and drainage system will be inspected, making sure water will not run into and flood your house.
Mechanical Systems
Your plumbing system will be inspected including all plumbing fixtures and faucets, water pressure as well as an inspection of visible pipes. The inspector will also help you locate the house’s main water shutoff valve.
The inspector will identify the kind of wiring your home has, check the electrical panel, breakers and fuses for any issues or fire hazards and inform you of necessary electrical upgrades. They will also check out the electrical service line, metre box, main disconnect and service amperage.
The heating and cooling system will receive a full inspection… Including the inspection of your furnace, ductwork and the home’s insulation and ventilation. They should be able to tell you the age of your furnace, how efficient it is and if it will need to be replaced in the near future. They will also take a look at your hot water heater and give you a general idea of when that might need to be replaced.
Fireplace
If the home has a fireplace, gas or wood burning… The home inspector will make sure it is operating properly and safely. They will check the damper, door and hearth and give recommendations for required maintenance.
Not only will conducting a full home inspection alert you of potential issues your home might have. Being present for the inspection will also teach you a lot about the ins and outs of your new home. This knowledge will come in handy in the future!