Home Inspection Reports - Common Questions & Answers
Buying a home is one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking times of a person’s life. It is, quite possibly, the largest purchase a person will make in their lifetime. Therefore, knowing the property and the health of all of the components is critical to smoothly leaping into homeownership.
At Clark Hill Inspections, we are often asked what’s included in an inspection report, who pays for it, and why it’s needed in the home buying process. Let’s explore some of those common questions and also go a little deeper into what is generally included in a report and what will not be found in a report. Let’s get at it.
What Is a Home Inspection Report?
For those new to the real estate market, let’s start at the beginning.
A home inspector’s report is the culminating report after a home inspection has been completed. The report spells out the findings of the objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house.
Depending on the size and condition of the house, an inspection may take 2-4 hours where the inspector will visually examine key components of the home from the roof to the foundation and much of what is in between. The report is written by the inspector after the on-site inspection and sent to the buyers for their review.
Who Pays for a Home Inspection?
In general, the home buyer pays for the home inspection. Sometimes, relocation companies will pay cover the cost up to a certain value.
Occasionally, a home seller may request an inspection prior to putting the property on the market so they will know the condition of the home and what repairs may need to be made.
Why Is a Home Inspection Needed?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment a homebuyer will ever make. While no home is perfect, it is important to understand as much about the condition of the property, structure, and its components as possible to maintain the health of the home for years to come.
An inspection can minimize unpleasant future surprises, identify major and minor repairs that are needed, and give the home buyers a map outlining the the upkeep that the home will need going forward.
What Are The Components of a Report?
Let’s start with what you won’t find in a home inspection report. A home inspection is not an appraisal and does not provide cost estimates for repairs. Therefore, the report will not include financial information. an appraisal amount. It is also not a municipal inspection and does not verify local code compliance.
What is in the report is a comprehensive description, complete with pictures, analysis, and recommendations about the major components of the home. This will include areas such as:
The roof - gutters, downspouts, vents, flashings, skylights, chimney, and other roof penetrations and the general structure
Attic, insulation, and ventilation
The exterior - stairs, siding, patios, decks, windows, and more
The basement, foundation, and floor structure
Heating and cooling systems
Fireplace(s)
Plumbing systems
The Electrical system including the electric panel
Doors, windows, and skylights
Signs of Water Intrusion
Evidence of Wood Destroying Organisms
One of the major benefits to having a home inspection is that the client will be able to decipher what discoveries are a safety issue, a major concern, from other issues that may simply be an item in need of repair, some recommended maintenance, or due diligence for areas of improvement, and areas where efficiency can be enhanced.
Contrary to popular belief, a home does not pass or fail an inspection! As a former high school teacher, I chuckle when I hear some clients ask: “Did the house pass inspection?” or “What Grade would you give this house?” The association to a grading system that is common in schools does not apply well to houses. I tell my clients that houses are like people… they all have their problems. But, I reassure them by saying unlike people, you can fix the problems in a house.