Buying a house may be one of the largest and most exciting investments anyone will make. That’s why you do not want your excitement to turn into disappointment because you discovered after moving in that the central air conditioning system no longer works or the roof leaks. Having a home inspection performed could help to prevent your dream home from turning into a nightmare.

A home inspection helps potential home buyers and sellers by examining a property to determine its overall condition.

A home inspection is quite extensive and can expose hidden problems that may not be visibly noticeable. Here are some examples of areas of a home that are inspected.

• Structural System (foundation, slabs, framing, and beams)
• Electrical System and Components (wiring, conductors, service panel, light fixtures, and switches)
• HVAC System (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system that involves an air conditioner, duct work, heater)
• Plumbing (sump pumps, drainage systems, water heaters, and faucets)
• Roof and Gutters
• Floors
• Walls
• Ceilings
• Doors
• Windows (including locks and latches)
• Fireplaces
• Insulation
• Kitchen Appliances (dishwasher, garbage disposal, oven, refrigerator, microwave, etc.)
• Bathroom (sinks, drains, lights, toilets, showers, tubs etc.)
• Laundry Rooms
• Attic
• Crawl Space

After the examination, the home inspector presents the potential buyer or homeowner with a written home inspection report. The report may include photos to substantiate the inspector’s findings and recommendations for necessary repairs.

WHO PAYS FOR HOME INSPECTION?

Most of the time, the home buyer pays for the inspection since an inspection serves as protection for the buyer. However, a pre-listing inspection can make a seller aware of any repairs that need to be made before listing their home and increase the chances of selling their home quickly and for the best price. In that case, the seller pays for the inspection.

Having a home inspected by a professional is always a GREAT idea.