The prospect of buying a new home brings with it bundles of joy and energy. Indeed, it is one of the greatest dreams of all young adults, and the thrill of staying in your own home is simply unrivaled. However, many new home buyers don’t appreciate the importance of home inspection services. In this article, we shall discuss the inspection process. That way, you can give due consideration to it the next time you think of buying your dream home.
What is the Goal of a Home Inspection?
Home inspection refers to a thorough and systematic evaluation of the condition of a residential property with a view to determining how habitable it is. The evaluation tries to uncover three major facts – the integrity, functionality as well as the safety of the property.
How to get a Professional Home Inspection
Step-1: Finding an Inspector
First you have to find an inspector you feel confident about. There are three major ways to locate these professionals.
The first and the most traditional method is that of asking around for recommendations from family and friends. If you trust someone, chances are they can provide a quality referral based on their own experiences.
Second, you may also look up these professionals in local business directories or through Google. This is an ideal option since you will get their contact info online, and you can take some time to research their business. You can often find reviews and testimonials to help you qualify potential home inspectors.
Finally, you can trust your Real Estate agent to provide a quality inspector if you think you want to put an offer in on a home. They usually have a good working relationship with several Home Inspectors, and that relationship is built on trust over time. This is often your best option if you are new to an area.
Step -2: Evaluate the Inspector
Before you make your final decision, you should ask the potential home inspector a few questions over the phone or verify this information on the Internet. Here are the questions I recommend before you settle on an inspector:
- Where did you train and what is your level of qualification?
- Are you a licensed evaluator and do you have proper insurance in place?
- Do you have any local references from past homebuyers or Real Estate agents?
- Are you certified by an accredited agency?
These answers will give you an idea on what to expect before they arrive.
Step-3: Signing a Home Inspection Contract
In this process, the home inspector will arrange for an official document detailing all the terms and conditions of the inspection. Verify that they have insurance listed in case they miss something on the inspection. That way, you are covered later on if needed repairs are overlooked.
Step – 4: The Actual Home Inspections Services
Now we’re down to business! The inspector will take a few hours to check everything of interest in the home. Some of these services include the following;
- Roof inspection for defects in roofing materials either due to age or as a result of poor installation
- Ceiling problems such as stains and leaks
- Water intrusion into the basement or crawlspaces due to action of underground water
- Electrical safety hazards such as faulty electrical connections or lack of GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchens
- Rotten woods in places such as exterior trim decks, around tubs and showers, etc.
- Building violations as characterized with faulty or nonprocedural additions or alterations to the entire structure
- Faulty installations of water heaters and hazardous conditions involving gas heaters and gas connections
- Firewall violations in garages
- Inadequate insulation or attic ventilation
Final Thoughts
A home Inspection is nothing to leave to chance. Find a quality Inspector with good credentials. A home is one of the largest purchases you will ever make. Protect that investment, and know what you are buying.