One of the final steps before buying a house, a home inspection provides a thorough assessment of the property. Certified home inspectors identify all potential and actual problems the home features so buyers do not make blind purchases resulting in “money pit” residences. Buyers instead can renegotiate the selling price if they want to pay for repairs and replacements themselves or ask the seller to fund the home improvements and keep the price the same. Home inspections can also prompt buyers to look elsewhere. If you are about to buy your first home, learn what these important inspections include before moving forward.

What Happens During a Home Inspection?

Roof & Structural Checks

Home inspections typically take three to four days. They often begin with roofing system and structural checks to determine the home’s stability. Rooftop inspections include detailed checks of the shingles or other tile, as well as the chimney and flashing, skylights, and roof’s overall integrity.

Other structural inspections include the foundation, crawlspace or basement, attic, floors, and walls. Home inspectors look for things such as cracks and splits, warping, signs of rot, mold, and mildew, termite infestations, and anything else that compromises the building’s structure.

Electrical, Plumbing, & HVAC Inspections

Certified home inspectors review the house’s electrical and plumbing systems as well as the HVAC system assuming there is one. If no HVAC system is in place, the inspector will look at the condition of the furnace to make certain it works and is not a fire hazard. Electrical system checks include inspecting for loose or faulty wiring, overloaded circuit breakers, and overrated fuses. Depending on the house’s age, the inspector will also look for aluminum wiring that poses a serious fire risk, unlike copper wiring.

Plumbing system checks include ensuring every fixture works properly without leaking or causing other household damage. Again, depending on the age of the home, plumbing system inspections may include looking for corroding lead pipes.

Exterior & Interior Feature Checks

All other exterior and interior features receive detailed inspections during this process to give buyers peace of mind. Exterior inspections include examining the windows, siding, trim, railings, walkways, drainage system, garage door, and deck for things such as rotted wood and disintegrating concrete. The safety of all exterior doors also gets reviewed.

Interior inspections include determining the quality of all ceilings, floors, and railings, as well as insulation if applicable. The inspector will recommend insulation in the attic and crawlspace to prevent heat loss and high energy bills if none exists.

If it is time to schedule a home inspection, contact Prior To Purchase Inspection Services for the comprehensive assessment you need. The certified home inspectors provide the Greater Cincinnati, OH, and Northern Kentucky areas with visual evaluations and examinations, as well as written reports with photos so buyers make informed decisions. Call (859) 802-8561 today to make your inspection appointment or learn more about what the company does online. Get additional home buying tips on Facebook.