Quality is essential to any investment, especially one as significant as buying a home. If you’re looking to close on a house, a home inspection checks for any issues the residence may have. This will allow you to ask the current owner to make repairs or renegotiate the selling price. Here, learn about the basics of home inspections to help streamline this process.

4 Things About Home Inspections to Know Before Scheduling One

1. The Inspector Needs To Be Certified & Follow a Specific Checklist

Work with a home inspection company certified by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), or both. The best companies are knowledgeable in building regulations in their work areas as well as regional weather and local soil quality. Also ask if the company uses the industry’s standard checklist to conduct inspections and the number of years of experience: at least five is best.

2. You Can Attend

Attend the home inspection if you’d like. This allows you to ask questions on-site and learn more about your possible investment. Home inspections take anywhere from three to six hours depending on the size of the property. 

3. Home Inspections Don’t Cover Everything

Remember that a home inspection is merely part of the buying process. While inspections typically cover the home’s foundation, windows, walls, ceilings, attic, roof, doors, HVAC, plumbing, electricity, and attached structures such as garages, they do not check for mold or radon. They also do not cover septic tanks and wells, detached structures like sheds, asbestos, lead, pests, chimneys, or drain and sewer systems, so schedule additional surveys as necessary.

4. Retain The Report

Ask for a copy of the inspector’s findings. While reports are always sent to real estate agents, it’s a good idea to make copies for your own records. The best reports include pictures of damage and thorough explanations of all cosmetic, minor, major, and material defects. Cosmetic and minor defects are generally easy fixes, while major defects require professional repairs or replacements. Material defects are serious safety hazards needing immediate attention, such as faulty electrical wiring, foundation instabilities, and the presence of mold or radon.
 

Schedule your home inspection with Inspect Hawaii for the meticulous results you need. The Honolulu-based company serves all of Oahu except the North Shore, Nanakuli, and Waianae, and uses the latest technology to perform inspections, including drones and infrared cameras. Call (808) 330-2302 today to make an appointment or learn about the 90-90-90 guarantee online.