A Checklist for Inspecting a Home

If you are in the process of purchasing a home, there is a simple solution for inspecting the house for any signs of wear and tear. A thorough home inspection is an ideal solution for both the seller and the buyer. Any outstanding issue with the home can be quickly addressed before any contracts have been signed.

The cooling and heating system in the home is often one of the most crucial components that require a thorough inspection. If there is any issue found in the HVAC system, repairing it quickly is a good solution, albeit an expensive one.

Many times older homes have older HVAC systems that require either updating or a full replacement. In the end, the seller may need to reduce the overall price of the home, or offer a stipend to the purchaser to ensure that the issues are fixed either before or after taking ownership of the house. In addition to inspecting the HVAC system, a home inspector will likely completely check out the wood stoves, heat pumps, and window air-conditioning units.

In addition, the electrical system must be up to par any time a home changes hands. Older homes tend to have faulty wiring, as the insulation becomes frayed over the years. Any house that was built before the 1950s will likely have improperly working outlets that require a complete change out before the house can exchange hands.

Another key component to every home inspection is the plumbing system. The inspector will look for any signs of flooding, burst pipes, or a buildup of mold or moisture that tends to be growing in specific areas. This is because mold tends to be extremely toxic to individuals and can cause significant health hazards including breathing problems and allergies.

The inspector will also thoroughly evaluate the sewage system, to make sure that the drain pipes are all running as designed. Any blockage in the system might need to be remedied before the home exchanges hands in the sale. If the house has a septic tank instead of being attached to the municipal sewage system, it will need to be thoroughly inspected, to make sure that the leaching field has not reached its life expectancy.

The home inspector will also thoroughly evaluate the exterior of the home. This means they will thoroughly assess the gutters, windows, doors, decks, porches, roof system, foundation and chimney. They will look for any signs of foundation cracks that might need to be replaced as a result of crumbling. They will also thoroughly evaluate all the railings and steps around the house to make sure that they are in proper working order.

It is imperative for every purchaser of a home to have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified inspector before ever taking possession. If any problems are serious and not addressed, there should be a clause in the contract that allows the purchaser to back out of the deal unless the issues are remedied at the expense of the seller.