The home inspection is a chance for you to find out whether there are any issues with the property that the seller failed to disclose. Your home inspection also highlights any costly impending problems that are visually seen at the time of the home inspection. As the buyer, you’re responsible for hiring and scheduling the inspection. As the seller, you should know if there are any issues with the property, and it’s wise to opt for a pre-listing home inspection. Here’s what buyers and sellers need to know, when it comes to home inspection.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. Buying or selling your home is a massive investment and it’s important to have all the information about the condition the house is in. According to InterNACHI Most of your inspection will be related to maintenance recommendations and minor imperfections. These are good to know about.However, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories:
- major defects, such as a structural failure;
- conditions that can lead to major defects, such as a roof leak;
- issues that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home if not rectified immediately; and
- safety hazards, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electrical panel.
Anything in these categories should be addressed as soon as possible. Often, a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property (especially in categories 2 and 4).Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn of defects uncovered during an inspection. It’s important to realize that a seller is under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in your inspection report. No house is perfect.
What do home inspectors look for?
Thorough home inspectors will identify both interior and exterior features that may need to be fixed, repaired or replaced.
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing systems
- Roofing systems
- Insulation and ventilation
- Heating and cooling systems
- Major installed appliances (kitchen and laundry)
- Fireplaces and venting
- Structural components (foundation, crawlspaces, wall structures, etc.)
- Exterior features (doors, decks, surface grading, driveways, etc.)
- Interior features (stairways, window seals, garages, etc.)
What Should I Do During The Home Inspection?
The home inspection is a great opportunity to learn everything there is to know about the property. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the home inspection. Home inspectors can provide valuable insights on the structure, features of the home as well as recommended maintenance schedules. If you see something you think might be an issue or don’t understand something, now is the time to get clarity on any concerns pertaining to the current condition of the home.
What If You Fail The Home Inspection?
Discovering issues with the home doesn’t necessarily mean that the home “failed” an inspection for either party. Home Inspections by nature are not a pass or fail scenario. Instead, think of the report as insights on the property to help you make a more informed decision after consulting with your real estate team.
For sellers, the home inspection report isn’t an indication that you cannot sell the home, instead it's a resourceful guide that identifies areas where you might be able to upgrade or make repairs to make your home more appealing to potential buyers. This also, doesn’t mean that you have to fix anything. The home inspector will never tell you whether or not to buy or sell a house. Their job is simply to provide findings on the current state of the home at the time of the inspection, and provide valuable information on the structural features of the home, as well as helpful information as it relates to scheduled maintenance routines.
Home Inspection For Columbia and Surrounding Areas of South Carolina
Make sure to work with a qualified home inspection service provider that you can trust. An inspection is a great opportunity to learn more about the property and find out what additional expenses you may be facing in the years to come. Contact S&J Home Inspection for all your home inspection and termite inspection needs. Get the home inspection report and
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