Home Inspection
Usually, the seller will provide a property disclosure for interested buyers prior to writing a contract. This will declare the material facts about the physical condition of the property.
The property disclosure does not take the place of a buyers inspection that is usually made after a contract is completed.
A provision for a home inspection can be added to the sales contract identifying the areas to be inspected by a professional inspector. The purpose of the inspection is to find major defects in the home.
What to expect when the Inspector calls...
The job of the professional Home Inspector is to evaluate the condition of the property and ferret out problems that may not be obvious to the untrained eye. The inspectors evaluation is invaluable in helping you make an appropriate offer. Expect a clear concise report documenting problems, estimated repair and maintenance costs within a couple of days of the inspection. Whether or not you choose to use the services of professional inspector, here is a home inspection checklist you can use to avoid overlooking important considerations about the condition of the home:
Home Inspection Checklist
Exterior
- Foundation—any holes, cracks, etc.
- Rain Gutters and down-spouts—gaps, sags
- Siding—warp or weather damage
- Paint—blistering, peeling
- Doors & windows—fit, cracks, loose caulk
- Roof—leaks, worn spots, age, guarantee
- Chimney—alignment, loose bricks
- Driveway, sidewalks—overall condition, cracks, holes, sagging
- Landscaping—proper grading, overall condition and appearance
Interior
- General structure
- Floors & stairs—squeaks, stability, bows
- Plumbing—general condition, clogs, leaks
- Heat/cooling—capacity, condition
- Electrical system—age, condition, outlets, grounding, etc.
- Insulation—adequacy, efficiency
- Walls—cracks, loose plaster, leakage
- Kitchen—appliances, plumbing, condition of linoleum or tile
I will be happy to supply a list of recommended inspectors. You are encouraged to accompany the inspector to ask questions and receive a written report itemizing any areas of concern.
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office independently owned and operated