31 Jan What To Do During A Home Inspection
The Most Common FAQ’s During a Home Inspection
If you’re interested in purchasing a new home, there are a few things you must know. Before you finalize the deal, you need a home inspector – which is a good choice. Home inspectors can help make sure that the home you’re buying is free of major issues and give you the peace of mind needed to make an informed purchase decision. This includes an idea of what systems may need to be replaced or what repairs should be made. But what do you actually need to do during a home inspection from Equity Building Inspection? What can you expect? In this guide, we’ll help you understand the process, and what your inspector will need from you. Let’s get started now.
What Questions Should I Ask During The Home Inspection Process?
First off, make sure you attend the inspection. If your inspector will not let you attend the inspection, then you should hire a different inspector. You can treat the inspection not only as a way to learn what things are potentially problematic in your home, but as a quick guide to your home’s systems and appliances. At the completion of the home inspection, your inspector should walk you through all the conditions that he noted and discuss their implications and how they may be remedied. This is a good time for you to do your own “inspection” of the home. Measure rooms, take pictures and look for things that you will want to discuss with your Realtor or inspector.
Remember, your home inspector is there to help you, and they’re on your side. A good home inspector will answer any questions you ask during the process. But if you want to make sure you cover your bases, here are a few good ones:
- How does the roof look? Replacing a roof can cost thousands, but it must be done every 10-20 years if the home has an asphalt shingle roof, in most cases. Make sure the roof looks good – if it needs to be replaced soon, make a note of that.
- What is the biggest possible issue with this home? This is the big question! Your report may have many conditions that need attention however, ask your inspector what he thinks is the most important? This may be the roof, electrical, plumbing etc. Older homes may have unsafe knob-and-tube electrical wiring, or unbolted foundations. These may cause issues with safety. These issues may be expensive to repair and make it tough when you try to obtain home insurance
- How does the condition compare to other homes of a similar age? Many times, older houses have similar conditions based on their age which may not be deal-breakers. However, if it’s a fairly new home, and has issues that are usually found in much older homes, that would be a problem.
- Is the home structurally sound? If a home has “good bones” and the structure is in great shape, this is a good sign, particularly for an older home. If there is any kind of structural damage at all, you should reconsider buying the home. You may have to hire a structural engineer to further inspect any major structural issues. Your home inspector will advise you accordingly.
- Is the home graded properly and draining well? Improper grading and drainage can cause foundation damage, which can be expensive to repair, and lead to serious issues if it’s not fixed, or is fixed improperly. This is the number one cause of damage to a home.
Work With the Best Home Inspectors in the South Bay
While you should be present at your home inspection, don’t forget to let the home inspector do their job. There will be plenty of time at the completion of the inspection to ask all the questions and your inspector will walk you around the property to show you any and all details you want to see and discuss. We hope this can give you an overview of how you can better participate in the inspection process. But if you want to make sure you’re fully taken care of while purchasing your home, call Equity Building Inspection today. We’re home inspection experts and we’re ready to answer any of your questions at: 310-540-0200 equityinspection.com
No Comments