What Is a Home Inspection and What Is on the Checklist?
- connor3952
- Apr 1
- 5 min read
By Connor Moranos
A home inspection is one of the most important steps in buying or selling a home. It provides a detailed evaluation of the condition of a property, highlighting potential issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Whether you're a buyer trying to assess the condition of a home or a seller preparing for a sale, understanding what’s involved in a home inspection can help you make informed decisions.
What Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a thorough evaluation of a property's condition conducted by a certified home inspector. This inspection
covers the home’s structure, systems, and components, looking for potential issues that might affect its safety, functionality, or value. The goal of a home inspection is to identify major repairs or safety concerns that need to be addressed before finalizing the sale.
When Should You Get a Home Inspection?
Typically, a home inspection occurs after the buyer has made an offer on a property but before the sale is finalized. This allows the buyer to have a better understanding of the home's condition before committing to the purchase. Home inspections are generally arranged during the contingency period of the sale agreement, which gives the buyer time to review the report and negotiate repairs or walk away from the deal if necessary.
What Does a Home Inspection Cover?
A home inspection checklist covers various systems and components of a property, including:
Roof: Inspectors check for signs of damage, missing shingles, leaks, or deterioration.
Foundation: Cracks or structural issues in the foundation can be costly to repair.
Plumbing: Inspectors look for leaks, faulty pipes, and the condition of the water heater.
Electrical Systems: Wiring, outlets, circuit breakers, and the overall electrical system are inspected for safety.
HVAC Systems: Heating and cooling units are tested to ensure they are working properly.
Attic and Crawl Spaces: These areas are checked for proper insulation, ventilation, and signs of moisture or pests.
Exterior and Landscaping: The siding, windows, doors, and drainage systems are examined to make sure everything is in good shape.
What Are Things That Can Fail a Home Inspection?
Certain issues may cause a home inspection to fail. These are typically serious problems that can affect the safety or habitability of the home. Some common issues that can fail a home inspection include:
Structural problems like foundation cracks or significant settling.
Electrical hazards, such as outdated wiring
Plumbing issues, like leaks or outdated pipes that could burst.
Roof damage that could lead to leaks or water intrusion.
Mold or moisture issues in areas like the basement or attic.
What Happens if a House Fails Inspection?
If a home fails an inspection, it doesn't necessarily mean the deal is off. The buyer may have a few options:
Negotiate repairs: The buyer can ask the seller to repair or replace faulty components before closing.
Request a price reduction or credit: If repairs are not feasible, the buyer may request a price reduction or credit to cover the cost of fixing the issues.
Walk away: In some cases, the buyer may choose to walk away from the deal if the inspection reveals significant problems that the seller is unwilling to address.
What Are Home Inspectors Not Allowed to Do?
Home inspectors are not allowed to perform repairs. Their job is to provide an unbiased assessment of the property's condition. They are also typically not responsible for checking things like:
Cosmetic issues: Inspectors focus on structural and functional problems, not appearance.
Pest infestations: Unless specifically trained in pest control, home inspectors do not check for termites or other pests.
Code violations: Inspectors do not ensure that the home meets local building codes, though they may note significant safety concerns.
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
The cost of a home inspection can vary based on the size, age, and location of the property. On average, home inspections cost between $300 and $500. However, additional fees may apply if specialized inspections are required, such as for mold or radon testing.
Who Pays for a Home Inspection?
Typically, the buyer pays for the home inspection. However, this cost can sometimes be negotiated as part of the sale agreement.
How to Find a Reputable Home Inspector
To find a reputable home inspector, follow these steps:
Ask for recommendations: Speak with your real estate agent or friends and family who have recently bought homes.
Check credentials: Make sure the inspector is licensed, insured, and certified by a recognized professional organization, such as International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)
Look at reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials from past clients to assess the inspector’s reliability and professionalism.
Interview inspectors: Don’t be afraid to ask potential inspectors about their experience, process, and the tools they use.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
A typical home inspection takes about two to four hours, depending on the size and complexity of the home.
Should Buyers Attend an Inspection?
Yes, it’s a good idea for buyers to attend the inspection. This allows them to ask questions and get immediate feedback about the condition of the property.
What Should Sellers Expect from a Home Inspection?
Sellers should be prepared for the possibility of requests for repairs or price negotiations. While they’re not obligated to make repairs, they may need to negotiate to keep the deal moving forward.
Should Sellers Make Repairs Before the Inspection?
Sellers are not required to make repairs before the inspection, but addressing obvious issues may make the home more appealing and could prevent delays in the sale process.
How to Get a Better Home Inspection Report
To ensure the inspection goes smoothly, make sure the inspector has full access to all areas of the home, including the attic, basement, and crawl spaces. Ensure any problems that might raise red flags are addressed before the inspection.
Next Steps After a Home Inspection
Addressing Serious Issues
If serious issues are found during the inspection, buyers can request repairs or negotiate a lower price. Sometimes, sellers may offer a credit to cover the cost of repairs.
Using the Home Inspection as a Home Checklist
Even if no major issues are found, a home inspection report can serve as a guide for future home maintenance and improvement projects.
My Inspection Report Lists Dozens of Defects! What Should I Do?
If your report lists many defects, don’t panic. Many of these may be minor issues that don’t affect the overall structure or safety of the home. Focus on the serious issues first, and then work with the seller to address them.
Home Inspection vs. Home Appraisal
While a home inspection evaluates the condition of the property, a home appraisal is used to determine the property’s market value. Both are important steps in the home-buying process but serve different purposes.
By understanding what a home inspection looks for and how it works, you can make smarter decisions when buying or selling a home. A successful inspection can help you avoid costly surprises and ensure that your new home is safe and sound.
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