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Getting ready to sell your home? Looking to buy? Before you do either, you should make sure the property in question is in good shape. This is the main purpose of a Home Inspection!
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a safety and quality assessment on a property that is going to be sold. The inspector examines the structural aspects of the home, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical work, water, and sewage to ensure they are all functioning properly. The overall
condition of the property is also assessed for fire and safety issues, damages, and anything else that can affect its value.
When should you get a home inspection?
Are you planning to buy or sell a house? Every buyer should know that the purchase they are making is financially sound. Home inspections turn up safety issues and maintenance problems that could create serious trouble and expenses down the road. Inspections help everyone
understand the condition of a property, and thus the risks that should be considered before proceeding in a transaction.
What does a home inspection cover?
Home inspections are a very important part of the home buying process. But what to do home inspectors look for? In short, just about everything that needs to work for a home to be livable. Here are some of the essentials:
- Exterior – The inspector will check for cracks, missing siding, or damage to the roof – anything that could lead to water damage or pest infiltration. This includes an examination of the foundation if it is visible.
- Interior – Similar to the exterior, the inspector will look around for any signs of damage to walls, cabinets, windows, and other visible aspects of the home.
- Plumbing – The plumbing inspection includes a check for visible leaks, functioning faucets, shower heads and toilets, and to ensure the exposed pipes are not damaged or dangerously outdated.
- Electrical – The inspector will test all outlets and ensure there are working ground circuit interrupters, and examine the electrical panel for potential issues.
- Heating and Air – This includes an inspection of your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system (HVAC) and ducting to ensure furnace and air conditioner (if present) are both working.
- Fire Safety – The inspector will identify any potential fire hazards and test the smoke detectors.
How much does a home inspection cost?
Home inspections can vary in cost depending on what kind of home it is and where it is located. On average, Americans spend between $375 and $600 on inspections. It is usually the buyer who schedules the inspection, so they will foot the bill for it most of the time. Most inspections only take a few hours. However, inspectors in areas with busy real estate markets may not beavailable until weeks down the line. Buyers should try to schedule their inspections as soon as possible.