10 Things To Inspect When Buying a Home
Before you decide to buy a home, it is critical to have a skilled inspector provide a comprehensive inspection report. An inspector will go through the home from top to bottom, detailing all items that need to be repaired. Keep in mind, not all items are critical to fix right away and in Austin’s competitive market, it may be a challenge to get the seller to agree to fix or pay for all of the items on the report. A skilled agent and inspector will thoroughly explain the report to you, ensuring you understand it completely.
Here are the top 10 things you should have inspected before you buy a home.
1. Roof and Attic
Often, the condition of a roof is not checked until a property is put up for sale. Most sellers don’t think to have their roof looked at unless there is a visible problem, like a leak.The inspector will check the condition of the roof and also the attic for any composite or tile damage, leaks, and moisture. Your home inspections should include a full structural report on the state of the roof and attic.
2. Plumbing
Plumbing is an essential part of any home. If the inspection determines any specific issue such as leaks, the inspector will suggest that a plumber come out to do additional tests. Replacing plumbing is expensive and therefore you want to know exactly what you are signing up for.
3. Electrical
An electrical home inspection provides a thorough examination of your entire electrical system, ensuring all electrical wires, systems, and components (such as appliances) meet legal safety standards.
4. HVAC system
Performed by a qualified specialist, HVAC inspections will tell you how your home’s heating and cooling systems are functioning, and if any repairs are warranted, as well as replacement. An HVAC inspection is a thorough review and testing of your home’s heating and cooling equipment, as well as any whole-home indoor air quality systems.
5. Windows and Doors
If you want to keep heat in, cold out, and energy bills low, windows and doors must be in good working condition. The inspector will see if frames are secure and without rot, caulking is solid and secure, and glass is undamaged.
6. Structure
Is the home’s foundation solid? Are the sides straight? Are the window and door frames square? This part of the inspection is particularly important to a buyer who's considering an older house.
7. Grounds
home inspectors start the inspection by looking for current or future water issues such as standing puddles and faulty grading or downspouts. They inspect landscaping to see if trees and shrubs are in good condition (an arborist will give you a more detailed assessment), and evaluate pathways, retaining walls, sheds, and railings.
8. Insect and Pest
A quality pest inspection includes detailed, methodical and careful visual examination inside and outside your home by a trained and experienced pest inspector looking for evidence of termites, borers, wood decay, fungi and mold.
9. Water Damage
The inspector will look for water leaks, or evidence of water leaks. They will check all the areas where water leaks generally occur. Leaking water can be a sign of two problems. First, it can suggest that the pipes need repair or replacement. Additionally, the water itself can cause damage and erosion to floors, ceilings and foundations.
10. Property Specific Items
Does the home have a pool or septic system that are specific to the property? This usually requires a specialist who is well versed in these types of inspections. Realtors have a list of highly skilled specialists for these types of things.