What Is A Home Inspection And Why Should You Have One?

Home Inspections!  What Are They And Why You Should Have One?

Buying a home is one of the most important Investments that you will make in your lifetime and more than likely, you will do this more than once. A comprehensive home inspection is highly recommended prior to purchasing a home. 

What is a home Inspection?

A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive examination of the condition of a home, often in connection with the sale of that home. Home inspections are usually conducted by a home inspector who has the training and certifications to perform such inspections. In addition, a termite, radon, septic and well inspections may be required. A pool and spa inspection is also common.
According to the National Association of Realtors consumer guide, a home inspection is “a noninvasive visual examination of some combination of the mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems or the structural and essential components of a residential dwelling designed to identify material defects in those systems and components and performed for a fee in connection with or preparation for a proposed or possible residential real estate transfer. The term also includes any consultation regarding the property that is represented to be a home inspection or that is described by any confusingly similar term.”

Home Inspection

According to Steve recommend, A Bucks County and regional Home Inspector, “Home inspections typically take from 2-3 hours long depending on the size and condition of the home and you are encouraged to follow along throughout the inspection.  During the inspection process a detailed report complete with digital photos will be prepared.  The results will be reviewed and presented after the inspection or a PDF file can be emailed.” Once reviewed with the buyer and their Realtor®, a proposal to the sellers may be made for corrective action (if warranted) or a credit. Or perhaps, nothing is wrong! These items are negotiable under home inspection contingencies which have specific time-lines within the context of the Agreement of sale.

Items that are typically inspected in the interior of the home include major systems such as:

·         Heating and air conditioning systems.

·         The electrical components including outlets, proper GFCI function and the electrical panel box. Proper wiring and grounding is also checked.

·         The plumbing system including possible leaks in faucets, toilets, waste lines and more.

·         Appliances such as the dishwasher, range/oven and the microwave.

·         Door and window functionality including broken window seals.

·         Hot water heater

·         Garage door and openers including safe function of the system.

·         Smoke detectors (not tested unless by a Use and Occupancy code) But strongly recommended!

·         Interior roof trusses and an attic inspection for proper insulation and potential leaks.

·         The foundation of the home for excessive cracks and water penetration.

·         Basements for mold (could be a separate inspection in itself), excessive cracks in walls and floors, sump pump functionality (if applicable), beams and overall foundation.

·         A termite inspection usually encompasses the interior and exterior inspection. Mortgage companies typically require this.

Items that are typically inspected in the exterior of the home include:

·         A roof inspection for missing shingles, leaks and proper flashing  Also includes roof vents (for proper seals) ridge vents, soffits and the overall condition of the roof.

·         The exterior stucco, siding, brick, etc. Note that there may also be a separate stucco inspection by a certified stucco inspector. This is common with many relocation companies to certify that the stucco is properly installed.

·         Proper grading near the home for potential water penetration.

·         Gutter system for clogging and proper function.

·         Decks, balconies, porches and patios.

·         All exterior trim and flashing.

·         Exterior window inspection for proper caulking.

·         Driveway and sidewalk condition including steps.

·         Overgrown vegetation near the home.  Usually near A/C unit and vent areas.

·         A pool/hut tub inspection if applicable.

·         Detached garage structures including roofing

A radon inspection is also highly recommendation to insure proper and safe levels. There may be other inspections that are required that are not listed here including a separate Use and Occupancy of a Certificate Of Occupancy for new construction.

In any event, a home inspection should include material defects. Occasionally cosmetic issues may be noted in the report including floor condition, ceiling cracks, etc., but may not be considered a material defect.  A written report is given to the home buyer and this is reviewed with their Realtor® as inspection items may be negotiated as noted in the agreement of sale and most always has specific time-lines. Corrective action is also included in the scope of the report.

In any event, if you are purchasing a home whether it is resale or new construction, Real Estate can be one of the largest investments that you will ever make.  Therefore, I always recommend getting a home inspection by a certified home inspector. 

Frank Dolski   MBA, ABR, e-PRO
Associate Broker
Certified Relocation Specialist
Previews Luxury Home Specialist
Coldwell Banker Hearthside Realtors
215-803-3237 (mobile)
215-794-1070 x-103
f.dolski@cbhearthside.com
www.FrankDolski.Com

2006-2013 Top Producing Agent and Agent of the year for Coldwell Banker Hearthside in Lahaska Office!
2013 Coldwell Banker President’s Circle Recipient – Top 6% of all Coldwell Banker International Realtors.
Ranked in the top 1% of all Bucks County Realtor in 2013!