Inspection 101
We always recommend that buyers get a home inspection, even in a highly competitive market. If the inspector finds an issue with the home that may cost in the thousands and thousands of dollars to repair, we want our buyers to know that going into the purchase.
What Your Home Inspection Should Cover
Siding
Identifying dents, buckling and rot, or cracks if brick.
Foundations
Are there cracks or water seepage?
Insulation
Identifying condition, adequate rating for climate, and rodent disruption.
Doors and Windows
Seeking out loose or tight fits, condition of locks, condition of weather-stripping, and if correct glazing is used for glass.
Roof
Looking for age, conditions of flashing, pooling water, buckled shingles, and loose gutters and downspouts.
Ceilings, Walls, and Moldings
Identifying loose pieces, and drywall that is pulling away, cracked, or stained.
Porch/Deck
Looking for loose railings or steps, rot, and making sure railings are safe.
Electrical
Identifying the condition of fuse boxes/circuit breakers, the number of outlets in each room, whether the required GFI breakers are in place, and whether all electrical items work.
Plumbing
Poor water pressure, banging pipes, rust spots and corrosion that indicate leaks or sufficient insulation. Does the plumbing meet current safety requirements?
Water Heater
Looking for age, size adequate for house, speed of recovery, and the energy rating.
Furnace/Heater/Air Conditioning
Looking for age, last service and filter condition, and making sure all elements work properly.
Garage
Checking that the exterior is in good repair, checking the floor for cracks, and reviewing the door mechanism.
Basement
Looking for signs of water leakage and pests.
Attic
Looking for adequate ventilation, water leaks from roof, pests and any damage, as well as making sure the roof is structurally adequate.
Driveways/Sidewalks
Looking for cracks and heaving pavement.
Sewer
Our sewer infrastructure was created decades ago and it is not unusual for there to be pipes from the house to the city system that are in need of replacing.
We even recommend getting an inspection for new homes! If you are buying new, it may be tempting to save the inspection cost, but even brand-new homes can have problems. For example, broken window seals due to house settling, drainage issues, and even incorrectly-installed flashing around doors and windows are issues that can spell big trouble down the line. An inspection will flag such issues so they can be fixed.
If you are buying a home, getting an inspection lets you get to know the home and learn about the major and minor issues the property has before making the investment. No home is perfect, but having an inspection gives you the information you need to finalize your decision.