| Having your home inspected before purchase is the | | | | cannot "fail" an inspection, but rather it describes its |
| best way to minimize unpleasant surprises and | | | | physical condition and indicates what needs to be |
| unexpected difficulties. A home inspection can help | | | | repaired. |
| you identify the need for repairs, maintenance, and | | | | Typically, a home inspection is done soon after the |
| possibly preventative measures to avoid future | | | | purchase agreement is signed. However, before you |
| problems. | | | | sign you should be sure that there is an inspection |
| Standard Inspection | | | | clause in the contract. This can be done on a |
| The standard home inspection report typically covers | | | | contingency with the final purchase based on a |
| the condition of the home's heating and central air | | | | professional home inspection and should specify the |
| conditioning system; interior plumbing and electrical | | | | terms to which the buyer and seller are obligated. |
| systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, | | | | Common Home Defects |
| ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, | | | | Some of the most common defects and repair issues |
| basement and structural components. Regulations | | | | that home inspectors see are: |
| vary from state to state, so be sure to know the | | | | Poor drainage due to poor gutters and downspouts; |
| requirements. For more information regarding | | | | faulty wiring due to an out-of-date electrical system; |
| inspection standards, visit American Society of Home | | | | leaky roofs; unsafe heating systems; minor structural |
| Inspectors. | | | | damage; plumbing issues; inadequate ventilation; and |
| The fee for inspection varies depending on the size | | | | environmental hazards. |
| and age of your home, its location, and the addition | | | | What to Do in Case of Defects |
| of optional services like septic, well, and radon testing. | | | | Some defects are serious, while others can be slight |
| Expect to spend at least a several hundred dollars for | | | | and an inspector can help you decide whether or not |
| an adequate inspection. Other additional inspections | | | | you need to act on the defects. Disclosure laws vary |
| include, lead (required for homes built before 1978), | | | | from state to state and can range from voluntary |
| environmental hazards (asbestos, formaldehyde, and | | | | seller disclosure to mandatory seller disclosure |
| petroleum), and soil (condition of soil around | | | | questionnaires. At least thirty states require the seller |
| foundation and retaining walls). | | | | provide information to the buyer about the condition |
| Be aware that a home inspection is not a pass/fail | | | | of the home. To determine disclosure laws in your |
| examination. It is not an appraisal or a municipal | | | | state, click here for more information. |
| inspection to verify code compliance. Your home | | | | |