Should I have my home inspected?

When you decide to purchase a new home, you should consider paying an independent professional for a home inspection.  Buying a home is usually the largest single investment you will ever make.   You’ll want to learn as much as you can about the house before you buy it. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the foundation to the roof.  A home inspector will check the roof, basement, heating system, water heater, air-conditioning system, structure, plumbing, electrical, and many other aspects of buildings.

He looks for improper building practices, those items that require extensive repairs, items that are general maintenance issues, as well as some fire and safety issues.  A home inspection, however, is not technically exhaustive and does not imply that every defect will be discovered. Some inspection companies offer 90-day limited warranties to protect clients from unexpected mechanical and structural failures; otherwise, inspectors are not responsible for future failures.  

The result of an inspection is professional opinion of the physical condition of the property.  It will also list which components and systems may need major repair or replacement.  A condition in most home purchase agreements is a favorable home inspection.  Should the inspection report items that you are not comfortable with, the sale may be terminated without cost to the buyer or modified to include your findings.

How do I find a home inspector?

The best way to find an inspector is to ask friends to recommend a home inspector they have used. You should hire one who have completed a course or study program and have a certificate of proof of completion.  The American Society of Home Inspectors has a tool to Find an Inspector in n your area who belong to the non-profit professional organization.