A home inspection is an essential part of buying a home. It provides added information about the home prior to making a final decision. As a minimum, the outcome of every home inspection should include both a written report of items requiring additional attention/action and a debriefing (“walk through”) while still at the property. The staff at Zeller Home Inspections, a division of Z&H Enterprises in Lincoln, NE have over 30 years of experience conducting home inspections and strongly advise that the Buyer be present at the conclusion of the inspection. A home inspection is the Buyer’s chance to work with an expert to get a detailed review of the property.  Buyers need to consider the following 3 points when deciding whether they will or will not attend the inspection walk through.

Why the Buyer Should Be Present for a Home Inspection Walk Through

1. Getting Familiar With Your Home

Home inspectors have an extensive list of things to check. Whether it’s the HVAC system, foundation, property drainage, plumbing, electrical, appliances, etc. they’ll take a close look at pretty much everything. Most home Inspectors take pictures of the things they look at during the inspection and will provide a brief discussion about each photo to increase the Buyer’s knowledge of the home. Examples might include; location of main water shut-off, valves associated with the underground sprinkler system, “how to” for furnace filter replacement, location of main electrical panel and auxiliary panels, etc.  Also, being present at the walk through gives the Buyer an opportunity to ask questions to gain full understanding of identified conditions.

2. Getting a “Hands-On” Explanation

Even though the Inspector will likely provide photos of his findings, the Buyer has an opportunity to see conditions with a “hands-on” explanation.  If an inspector finds an issue, it’s drastically different seeing it in person compared to looking at pictures and reading about it in the inspection report. Being at the walk through will give you an honest look at the severity of the problem and allows you to ask clarifying questions.

3. Actions to Protect the Value of Your Home

When you buy a home, you not only need assurance that significant issues have been identified and corrected but you also need to understand conditions that may require monitoring over time to avoid future problems. As part of the inspection walk through, the Inspector will point out systems or areas of the home that will need ongoing monitoring or some future action to prevent a safety problem or damage to the home.  The walk through is a great time to make sure you have a clear understanding of these items so that appropriate actions are established or planned. An example is grading around the exterior of the home.  The Inspector may identify areas around the outside of your home where settling or run-off conditions could result in water entering the basement if left unattended.

If you’re ready to schedule a home inspection, turn to Zeller Home Inspections, a division of Z&H Enterprises. They understand how important the home-buying process is and are committed to providing their clients with accurate results. From a quick check to make sure doors in the home latch to a comprehensive inspection of the home’s HVAC system, they’ll examine every aspect of a property to ensure its safe and in good condition. Call (402) 742-5806 today to speak with their staff and visit their website and Facebook page to learn more.