Buyers

Home Inspections

Besides appraisal and the termite inspection, you should also have a professional go through the house and seek out potential problems. Of course, you will have inspected the home, but you are not used to looking at some things that a professional will find. Even if they are not things the seller is expected to repair, at least you will have foreknowledge of any potential problems.

The seller will want this inspection performed quickly, so that you can approve the results and move forward with the purchase. Once you receive the inspection, you will want to allow yourself sufficient time to review and approve the report. If you do not approve the report, you may negotiate with the sellers on which repairs should be performed and who should pay for those repairs. Otherwise, you can cancel the purchase without penalty, provided you have included timetables in your offer.

Structural

Covers the structure of the building in terms of materials used and type of construction. Foundation type, framing materials, and other significant sub-components are noted along with any idiosyncrasies. The inspector/surveyor also checks for major or minor problems in the foundation, floor, wall and roof framing.

Electrical

The electrical system is checked for sufficient capacity and safety, and evaluated in terms of its current condition and suitability for future use. Upgrades and repairs are recommended where appropriate.

Heating and Air Conditioning

The inspector assesses the capacity of the existing equipment, and by considering the age of the equipment and its intended capacity, approximates the life expectancy and recommends appropriate repairs an upgrades.

Plumbing

The piping and fixtures throughout the house are checked for function flow and life expectancies. They are screened for unsanitary conditions and potential repairs, freeze vulnerability, or spillage/overflow. Laundry equipment, tile work, and domestic water heating equipment are also surveyed.

Basement/Crawl Space/Slab

Water seepage probabilities and structural problems are evaluated and remediation advice given if needed. The inspector also looks for possible problem areas that could cause structural problems, such as poor soil, surface drainage, proximity to tree roots and rotating stoops.

Kitchen

All appliances are operated and deficiencies noted. The inspector approximates the age of each piece and its life expectancy. The inspector may also, depending on the age and usefulness of the kitchen, suggest a budget for repairs ranging from addressing typical minor problems to a complete renovation.

Interior

Walls, floors and ceiling surfaces are scanned for problematic conditions, visible evidence of water penetration, potentially dangerous or toxic materials, fire hazards, or security breaches. Ventilation and energy conservation aspects are checked and appropriate upgrades are itemized.

Exterior

The roof (where safe and appropriate), roof runoff controls and landscape drainage are inspected and necessary improvements are recommended. Stoops, steps, walks and drives are checked for voids, surface problems and safety hazards.