When you’re buying that dream home with the beautiful open floor plan and updated kitchen, you’re also buying any potential problems lurking in the basement or behind the walls. A home inspection is a standard — and important — part of the home buying process that gives you the chance to really get to know your new home...the good and the bad.
But like many parts of the home buying process, the inspection is often misunderstood. Let’s take a closer look at this critical step to set expectations and really understand what’s included...and what’s not.
What a home inspection is/isn’t
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), a home inspection is “an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.”
Most savvy buyers include a home inspection contingency in their offer, which allows them to reopen negotiations or walk away from the deal altogether if they aren’t happy with the results.
Jason Murton of Accurate Inspections, LLC says while a home inspection is a detailed analysis of a property, it’s important for buyers to understand that it’s not a guarantee.
“We’re looking at the systems and components of the home and their expected remaining lifespan, but we can’t predict the future,” he said. “Let’s say a home has a 15-year-old roof with a 25-year shingle. I can tell you that it should have a few more years of life left, but if a bad storm hits the next year and causes some damage, it may need to be repaired or replaced sooner than planned.”
What’s included, and what’s not
ASHI says a standard home inspection report covers “the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.”
Murton, who has more than 20 years of construction and inspection experience, says when it comes to what is and isn’t covered, the word “visible” is key.
“For instance, we aren’t looking inside wall cavities to check insulation, but we’ll inspect the visible insulation in the attic,” he said. “When we look at the furnace, it’s a visual check...watching the flame, electronically testing for carbon monoxide, etc. But, we won’t take it apart to check the components. That’s outside our scope of work and can only be done by a licensed HVAC inspector.”
A typical inspection does not routinely include an evaluation of things like structural engineering work, swimming pools, or fireplaces and chimneys. Murton says specialized professionals may need to be brought in for these areas, but this sometimes depends on your geographical area and the expertise of your inspector.
“I have colleagues in Florida who routinely check swimming pools, but those are much more common in that part of the country,” he said. “On the other hand, most inspectors in our area will include a visible check of fireplaces and chimneys because we see them regularly and are familiar with the red flags.”
A standard report also does not cover items like a well and septic system, mold (outside of a visual check), asbestos, radon, or pests, but these checks are often available as add-ons.
“It’s important to note that a pest inspection generally focuses on wood-destroying insects,” said Murton. “A lot of people have the perception that it includes all insects and pests like bats and rodents. While a good inspector may talk about these things, especially if there are noticeable signs, the forms are specific to wood-destroying insects.”
How to protect yourself and your investment
Your home is most likely the largest financial commitment you will ever make, and it’s not a decision to be entered into lightly. To help protect that investment, a home inspection is key, and having that inspection performed by a qualified professional is an absolute must.
In addition to asking friends and family for recommendations, your REALTOR® is a great resource and can provide names of reputable area inspectors. But, regardless of how you get your referrals, it’s important to do your own due diligence. Before deciding whom to hire, ask these important questions of your potential inspector:
- Are you licensed or certified?
- How long have you been in the business?
- How much do you charge?
- What do you check, exactly?
- What don’t you check, specifically?
- How soon after the inspection will I receive my report?
- May I see a sample report?
“I can’t stress enough the importance of doing your research,” said Murton. “In Michigan, there is no specific licensing for home inspectors. There are organizations that provide certification, but some of them are relatively new and not all of them require testing.”
As a buyer, it’s highly recommended that you attend your inspection. In fact, most inspectors want prospective owners to be present and encourage them to ask questions.
“We are both there for the same reason...to learn as much about the property’s condition as possible,” said Murton. “So, tag along, voice any concerns, and ask questions. This is a great way to learn the inner workings of your new home and really feel comfortable with your decision.”
Visit the Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS® website at www.lansing-realestate.com for a list of local home inspectors who are ready to guide you.
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Why It Is Important to Get a Home Inspection on A New Build
What is Radon and Why Testing is Important
What is NOT Included in a Home Inspection?
Should You Do a Home Inspection Before Selling?
Scary Stories from Home Inspectors
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