5 Key Reasons to Get a Home Inspection
Home inspectors are a great way to get a good look at a property before you buy it. Getting an inspection done can save you from making a colossal mistake or help you budget for any issues that might come up later.
Some problems are easy to spot, like a roof losing shingles or a plumbing leak under the sink. But what about more severe problems that might be hidden?
Peace of Mind
A professional home inspection will give you peace of mind whether you are a buyer or seller. Knowing the condition of a potential new home will enable you to address problems that might arise and negotiate repairs or walk away if they are significant.
A good inspector will take the time to inspect a property thoroughly and will understandably explain their findings. During the inspection, they will be able to highlight any safety concerns and may recommend a specialist if further investigation is needed.
Be sure to ask an inspector for references and a sample report. Also, inspectors interested in contracts for work on the inspected property may be biased. Ideally, the inspector should be independent of contractors and other service providers.
Avoid Unnecessary Repairs
During the home inspection, your inspector will examine the structure’s basic “envelope” that protects it from the elements. It includes the roof, gutters and flashing, window seals, insulation, and more. A good inspector will also check that the plumbing is in good shape, providing enough water and draining properly.
Finding one with experience and positive references is best when choosing a home inspector. Hiring someone specializing in several areas is also helpful because that means they’ll be more thorough. It can save you money in the long run by preventing unnecessary repairs.
For example, a home inspector might catch problems like cracked sidewalks that you’d otherwise have to pay to repair after you move in. They may also find a leaky roof or faulty electrical wiring that you might have overlooked.
Save Money
A home inspector can save money by finding problems that might cost you a lot to fix later. They can also alert you to potential safety issues that might go unnoticed by a homeowner and could compromise your family’s health. As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Home buyers should always hire an independent home inspector licensed and certified by professional organizations. They should have references from previous clients, as well as a website. They should also carry errors and omissions insurance, which is more expensive but provides additional protection for the client.
Most professionals prefer that the buyers attend the inspection so that they can explain the good, bad, and ugly of the house.
Avoid Unnecessary Surprises
You’ve probably heard the adage, “You get what you pay for.” A good home inspector may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run.
When choosing an inspector, consider their professional training, relevant experience, and length of time in business. Also, ask for references from past clients and check online reviews.
Many home inspectors use special equipment to examine various areas, from crawl spaces and attics to the roof and electrical outlets. Some offer additional services, like using an infrared camera to detect wall or ceiling damage or testing the air quality. Look for one who offers these tools and is certified by a professional association. Having these credentials can help you avoid unnecessary surprises.
Save Time
A professional home inspector can help save time by finding any issues that need to be addressed before you move into the house. As the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
A good inspector should also take the time to explain their findings in detail. Many inspectors even encourage buyers to be present for the inspection to help explain any problems that may have been uncovered.
Check out the inspector’s website for customer reviews, and ask your family, friends, and coworkers for recommendations. When you find a few candidates, compare prices to ensure you get the best value. Remember that the cost of a thorough inspection will pay for itself many times over in peace of mind.
