Home inspections provide an important tool during the buying and selling process in real estate. You will also need a home inspection after certain remodeling or home renovation projects.
No matter the reason you will have a home inspection done, and you should understand what to expect. Let’s look at a few of the things you should know about home inspections.
What is a Home Inspection?
When a certified home inspector is hired to look at the functional aspects of a home, it’s called a home inspection. They will help to determine the safety of the home and the status of the major systems. A home inspection won’t warn you about potential issues and won’t’ fix anything, but it will give you a better idea of the current condition of the home including any repair concerns.
What Will a Home Inspection Include?
A home inspector will look for any defects in the home that will impact the structure or the safety of the dwelling. It’s a visual examination by trained professionals. While the inspector won’t look inside the plumbing, behind the walls, or in the sewer system, they will look at many areas of the home including:
- The Attic
- Gutters and downspouts
- Appliances
- Windows and doors
- Walkways and driveways
- Garage
- Basement
- Flooring, walls, and ceiling
- HVAC System
- Electrical panels
- Power outlets and light switches
- Stairs, railings, and steps
- Balconies, porches, and decks
- Plumbing fixtures and faucets
- The Water heater
If you had a home renovation project done, the inspection may only include the systems and areas of the home that were renovated. It’s also possible to get more in-depth home inspections, when necessary.
When Should a Home Inspection Be Done?
After any renovation project, it’s common to have a home inspection done for the area that was changed. Buyers will also order a home inspection after their offer has been accepted on a property. In some cases, home sellers will have a home inspection done before listing their home for sale, too.
How Much Will a Home Inspection Cost?
The cost of a home inspection will range from about $200 to $500. Redfin states the national average is about $336. While it might seem like a high price to pay, a home inspection is necessary for several instances. It can be a protection when buying a house, help you make repairs before selling, and can ensure home renovations were done properly, too.
What is My Home Renovations Don’t Pass the Inspection?
After a major home renovation project, if you don’t pass the inspection, the contractor will need to redo the work. The inspector will make sure the work was done up to code. If it wasn’t, it will have to be redone.
In some cases, if you took out a loan to do the work, the lender may require a home inspection to approve the work. Most contractors will stand by their work and will fix any issues without any extra charges.
There are several things to understand about a home inspection. If you plan to have major home renovations done or you plan to buy or sell a home, you will likely need to know what to expect with a home inspection.
