7 Important Things Inspectors Look for During a Home Inspection
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Comprehensive Home Inspection
When it comes to purchasing a home, it’s important to understand exactly what you’re getting into. A home inspection is a crucial step in the process, as it can help identify any potential issues with the property that may not be immediately obvious. At CoreSpect, all of our home inspectors are nationally certified by either InterNachi or ASHI, and we provide comprehensive home inspection services to the San Francisco Bay Area, helping home buyers, home sellers, and real estate agents achieve their goals.
There are many benefits to having a home inspection, including:
- Identifying any major issues with the property that may need to be addressed before closing the sale
- Providing peace of mind and confidence in the purchase decision
- Serving as a negotiation tool, allowing the buyer to request repairs or credits from the seller based on the findings of the inspection
In this article, we’ll cover the top 7 things that home inspectors look for during a home inspection. By understanding what to expect and what to look for, you can make the most of this important process.
Table of Contents
1. Structural Components
The foundation, walls, floors, and roof of a home are all critical structural components that need to be in good condition. During the inspection, your home inspector will look for any signs of damage or wear, as well as check for proper construction and installation. Some things to look for include:
- Cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors
- Sagging or uneven floors
- Leaks in the roof or signs of water damage
- Rot or decay in wood components
- Proper installation of doors and windows
2. Plumbing and Electrical Systems
The plumbing and electrical systems of a home are also critical components that need to be in good working order. During the inspection, your home inspector will check for any issues with these systems, as well as ensure that they meet current code requirements. Some things to look for include:
- Leaks in the plumbing system
- Age and condition of the water heater
- Proper installation and grounding of electrical outlets and wiring
- Adequate electrical panel capacity and proper installation
- Presence of GFCI outlets in areas prone to water exposure
3. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
The HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable year-round, so it’s important to ensure that it’s in good working order. During the inspection, your home inspector will check the age and condition of the system, as well as its proper installation and operation. Some things to look for include:
- Age and condition of the furnace, air conditioner, and any other HVAC components
- Proper installation and operation of the system
- Adequate ventilation in all rooms
- Presence of carbon monoxide detectors
4. Appliances
Appliances such as the refrigerator, stove, and washer/dryer can be major expenses to replace, so it’s important to ensure that they are in good working order. During the inspection, your home inspector will check the age and condition of these appliances, as well as their proper installation. Some things to look for include:
- Age and condition of the appliances
- Proper installation and operation of the appliances
- Presence of any recalls or safety issues with the appliances
5. Exterior Components
The exterior of a home includes the driveway, walkways, roof, and siding, all of which need to be in good condition. During the inspection, your home inspector will check for any issues with these components, as well as ensure that they are properly installed. Some things to look for include:
- Damage to the roof, including missing or damaged shingles
- Signs of water damage on the roof or in the attic
- Age and condition of the siding and any trim work
- Proper installation and operation of exterior doors and windows
- Condition of the driveway and walkways, including any cracks or damage
6. Interior Components
The interior of a home includes the walls, floors, and ceilings, all of which need to be in good condition. During the inspection, your home inspector will check for any issues with these components, as well as ensure that they are properly installed. Some things to look for include:
- Signs of water damage on the walls, floors, or ceilings
- Cracks or damage to the walls, floors, or ceilings
- Proper installation and operation of interior doors and windows
- Condition of the paint and wallpaper
- Condition of the flooring, including any issues with warping or deterioration
7. Pest Inspection (optional)
While a Pest Inspection is optional it is also an important part of the process of purchasing a home. Pest infestations can be a major problem in a home, and they can be difficult and costly to eradicate. That’s why it’s important to have a pest inspection as part of the home inspection process. During the inspection, your home inspector will look for any signs of pests, including termites, ants, and rodents. Some things to look for include:
- Evidence of pests, such as droppings or nests
- Damage caused by pests, such as holes in walls or floors
- Presence of pest control measures, such as bait stations or traps
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long does a home inspection take?
A home inspection typically takes several hours to complete, depending on the size and age of the property. It’s important to allow enough time for the inspector to thoroughly check all areas of the home, including the inside, outside, and the crawl space or attic.
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Who pays for the home inspection?
The buyer typically pays for the home inspection, as it is a part of the purchasing process. However, it’s not uncommon for the seller to offer to pay for the inspection as a goodwill gesture. It’s important to discuss the terms of the inspection and who will be responsible for paying for it with your real estate agent.
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Can the seller fix issues found during the inspection?
The seller is not required to fix any issues found during the inspection, but they may choose to do so in order to facilitate the sale of the property. If the buyer and seller agree to have the seller make repairs, it’s important to document this agreement in writing and include it in the purchase contract.
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What if the home inspection finds major issues?
If the home inspection finds major issues with the property, it’s important to discuss your options with your real estate agent. You may decide to renegotiate the purchase price to reflect the cost of repairs, request that the seller make the repairs before closing, or walk away from the sale. It’s important to carefully consider all of your options before making a decision.
Conclusion
A home inspection is an important step in the process of purchasing a home, as it can help identify any potential issues with the property. By understanding what to look for and what questions to ask, you can make the most of this important process. If you’re in the San Francisco Bay Area and in need of a home inspection, don’t hesitate to contact CoreSpect. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help you achieve your goals.
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Get the information you need to make an informed decision about your real estate transaction.
If you’re in the process of purchasing a home in the San Francisco Bay Area, don’t risk making a costly mistake. Contact CoreSpect today to schedule a comprehensive home inspection. Our team of experienced professionals will help you identify any potential issues with the property and give you the confidence you need to make the right decision.
