A home inspection is an important part of the home buying process, and it can help you uncover any potential issues before completing the transaction. In fact, a thorough inspection will help you make an informed decision. Should the licensed professional note any problems with the current condition of the home, you may be able to request that the seller fixes the problems before you complete the purchase. In the end, a home inspection may save you thousands of dollars in repairs and help prevent hidden costs.
But what is a home inspection and what does a home inspection include?
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a complete assessment of the current condition of the home, and it must be done by a licensed professional. The inspector will assess all of the house’s physical structures and appliances, with the goal of uncovering potential issues with the home itself.
What Does a Home Inspection Include?
A thorough inspection will include an examination of:
- Foundation, basement, and structure
- Heating system
- Air conditioning
- Electrical system (all light fixtures and switches as well)
- The interior of the home including the drywall, ceilings, doors, windows.
- Interior plumbing
Home inspectors have the ability to perform a radon test or mold test, but typically that will be for an added fee.
Home Buyers Inspection vs. Home Sellers Inspection
There are two common types of inspections people have done for homes, the home buyers inspection and the home sellers inspection. A buyer’s inspection is ordered by the buyer and will happen after the offer has been accepted, but before the closing. The buyer can use the assessment of the current condition in the inspection report to determine if they would like to renegotiate their offer or request the seller handles certain repairs. This is the most common type of inspection.
The seller can also choose to have an inspection before listing the home. The seller will use the inspection report to prepare their house for sale, and potentially fix any issues before they arise on the buyer’s end. This can help speed up the closing process and give the buyer peace of mind. Keep in mind, if you get a pre-listing inspection, you are legally obligated to disclose the home inspection report to buyers.
Here’s How Home Inspections Work:
The general process of inspection is:
- The buyer or seller submits a request for a home inspection to a licensed professional and schedules the inspection.
- The inspector shows up for the appointment. This begs the question of who should be present during the home inspection? The person that ordered the inspection should be present, and aside from that, the other parties are optional. Typically the real estate agent for the party that ordered the inspection will also be present.
- The licensed professional inspectors perform their inspections. They will examine every inch possible of the home with specialized tools, taking notes and photos. The time it takes to complete the inspection will depend on the size of the house.
- The inspector will prepare a report. Some companies may provide your inspection report later that day, while others may take up to 3 or 4 days.
- You can use the completed inspection report to make an informed decision about buying or selling a home.
A Thorough Home Inspection in Denver
A home inspection is incredibly important for the home buying or selling process, and you need a licensed professional you can trust. The best home inspectors are thorough and provide you with an extensive, easy-to-read report. For the top home inspector in the Denver area, look no further. Find out more about our home inspection services and how we can help you make an informed decision by contacting us today.
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