A home inspection may well be one of the best bargains in real estate. For a few hundred dollars you can have a trained professional go through your potential home. You don’t want expensive surprises in these important areas:
- Roof
- Heating and air conditioning (HVAC)
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Structural
There are a number of ways to include a home inspection clause in a real estate purchase agreement. Unfortunately, not all inspection clauses give equal protection for purchasers.
Home defects: Major vs minor
When it comes to home condition the understanding is very simple. No home is perfect. The big question is whether the imperfections are major or minor.
Home inspection questions
What are the questions you need to ask a home inspector before hiring?
Are home inspectors certified in this state? Do you have current certifications?
For details regarding home inspection language speak with local real estate brokers and attorneys.
Are you insured or bonded? The inspector – and the consumer – need such protection in case there’s an accident at the property.
Are you a member of a professional association? Perhaps the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI)? What are your professional credentials? Do you have a background in construction or are you a licensed engineer?
What type of inspection report do you use? There are different form reports available. Many of them make repair needs easy to understand. Be aware that the inspector’s scope of engagement may exclude certain activities. For example, an inspection agreement may state that the inspector is not a pest controller or a chimney sweep.
Real estate brokers
Should you get a home inspector recommended by a real estate broker? It can be argued that the real estate broker has experience in the community and can identify a good inspector. The way to look at this is to say that the purpose of a home inspection is to help you make a purchase decision. Sometimes that decision is yes and sometimes it’s no. In either case, you had the advantage of an independent inspector.
You probably need a home inspector even with new construction. According to ASHI, even new homes can have defects. It suggests getting inspections prior to foundation pour, before the insulation and drywall are in place, and at the final walk-through.
Lastly, in addition to a home inspection, it can be worthwhile to have a home warranty. And that goes double if you can get the seller to throw it in with the house.