While getting swept up in the excitement of buying a new home, there is one crucial item of business that should cause you to hit the pause button: the home inspection. Post-contract signing is when you must ensure you have an all-important home inspection done. This is your only opportunity to make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into when it comes to the home's condition. Your home purchase contract should include an inspection contingency that gives you a specific number of days to complete an inspection. It can be tempting to skip the inspection to save time and money, but it could cost you far more in the long run if you decide to forgo the home inspection. The last thing you would want is to move into your new home and find significant issues when it is too late.
How does a home inspection work?
The buyer typically hires a home inspector to identify health issues, safety issues, or major defects in the home. A home inspection is not a pass or fail situation; home inspectors are typically not concerned with purely cosmetic defects. Home inspectors will also not concretely tell you if you should purchase the home or not, but after reading the report, you should have enough information that you can make an educated decision on your own. An inspection report can include water damage, structural damage, roof damage, electrical issues, plumbing problems, pest infestations, and HVAC issues. The inspection report offers a deeper understanding of whether the home has been well-maintained or needs major repairs. Another essential thing to have an inspector look for is whether any unpermitted work has been done. If so, you could be on the hook for bringing the house up to code should you ever remodel.
How long does a home inspection take?
A typical home inspection takes a few hours for an average-sized house. You can count on roughly one hour for every 1,000 square feet, while older homes may require more time for a thorough inspection. Most home inspectors will provide answers to any questions you may have about the house, so it’s a good idea to go to the inspection and hear the findings firsthand. The official report will then take about 3-4 days to complete.
How do I find a good home inspector?
Time is of the essence during the home buying process, so it is vital that you already have a trustworthy home inspector ready to make a quick appointment after signing the contract. Here is how to find a good home inspector:
● Always use a licensed and insured home inspector. In most states, inspectors are legally required to be licensed or certified. You can look on the government website of the state the property resides in to check for certification.
● You will want to choose a home inspection company specializing only in home inspections. Companies that also offer repairs and renovations may be looking to boost business by adding unnecessary issues to the inspection report.
● Ask for a sample report. It is helpful to compare sample reports from various inspectors to get an idea about the level of detail they provide. You are looking for clearly written reports, including images and/or video. Some inspectors will have sample reports on their website.
● Get referrals. Ask friends, family, and co-workers who have recently purchased a home whether they recommend the home inspector they used.
● Online home inspector reviews can also be helpful when searching for the right inspector. Look for a pattern in the type of service the inspector provides and the experience their clients have.
● Find out if the inspector offers advanced technology for a more detailed inspection. These services include Infrared technology to help detect overheating electrical systems or air leaks, electronic radon monitors, gas leak detection technology, water pressure gauges, moisture meters, or water test strips. If these tests are essential to you, find out if they are offered and if there are extra fees beyond the initial inspection for specialized tests.
● Ask for a detailed quote, including the cost of the inspection and a list of additional services and costs.
● Find out if the inspector is a member of ASHI, NAHI, InterNACHI, or any other professional inspectors group, as this indicates a degree of professionalism and training.
What happens after the home inspection?
If you as the buyer are not satisfied with the home’s current condition, you can request the seller address the repairs or offer a credit toward the cost of repairs at closing. Following the home inspection, there is a chance that you will need to negotiate at least some repairs. As a rule of thumb, focus on significant issues or deal breakers. Trust your agent to guide you through this process. They have experience in negotiating for your best interests without threatening the deal.
Your home is one of the most significant and valuable purchases you’ll ever make. Home inspections help ensure you’re making a good investment. But remember, your home inspection is only as reliable as the inspector you hire!
Once your inspection is complete and you are ready to move, give 1-800-PACK-RAT a call. We are ready to partner with you for an easy, stress-free local or long-distance move. We also provide our customers with temporary or long-term on-site or warehouse storage in one of our nationwide, secure storage facilities if you require it. Whatever your moving and storage needs might be, 1-800-PACK-RAT makes it simple!