The inspector is your protector
The inspector helps you verify that there are no hidden defects in the house before you make a long-term commitment. (Think of it this way: You wouldn’t even have coffee with a stranger, would you?)
Thus, the home inspector is responsible for identifying any reasonably detectable problems in the house (a leaky roof, faulty plumbing, etc.). Hiring an inspector is part of the necessary due diligence process that must be undertaken. To find a good inspector (we’ll come back to that soon), it helps to understand what a typical home inspection involves.
An inspection is all about making lists.
Before beginning, the home inspector will review the seller’s property disclosure statement. (Each state has its own requirements for what sellers must disclose on these forms; some have more stringent requirements than others.) The statement lists defects known to the seller that could negatively affect the value of the home.
Seller disclosure covers a number of aspects, such as:
• Mold
• Presence of pests
• Leaks on the roof
• Foundation damage
• Other issues, as required by each state.
During the inspection, the inspector has three tasks:
1. Identify the problems you can see.
2. Suggest fixes.
Controlling the inspector is your task
Now you can get in touch with someone who is a professional in all these issues. This is where, once again, your real estate agent will be of invaluable help, as they will be able to refer you to reputable home inspectors.
In addition to getting recommendations (your friends and family may have helpful information too), you can search for professional inspectors on the websites of industry associations. The ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) Find a Home Inspector tool (available at https://www.homeinspector.org/) allows you to search by address, metropolitan area, or neighborhood. You can also search for inspectors by state on InterNachi (https://www.nachi.org).
We recommend interviewing at least three inspectors before deciding who to hire
Go to the inspection (and go with your agent)
It is the day of the inspection and the honor of your presence, and that of your agent, is not mandatory, but highly recommended. Although you will receive a detailed inspection report, being there firsthand will give you a chance to ask questions and see the inner workings of the home.
Set aside two or three hours for the inspection. The inspector will check the entire property: check the water pressure; if there are attic leaks, plumbing, etc.; door and window frames are straight (otherwise there could be a structural problem); if the electrical wiring complies with the corresponding code; Are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors working? if the appliances work well. Outside, among other things, you will control siding, fences, and drains.
Now to negotiate!
Once you receive the inspector’s report, review it with your agent. Sellers are legally required to make certain repairs, which may vary by location. Most sales contracts require the seller to arrange:
• Structural defects
• Violations of the building code
• Security problems.
