Picking a home to buy is a big decision. There are many factors to consider that go beyond the beauty of the property. Once you’ve found a house that you believe suits your needs and have made an offer, one of the most critical steps of the process before finalization is the home inspection. This involves a professional taking a look at the property’s essential systems and structural components for needed repairs. You should be present so that you can ask questions as needed, including the ones mentioned below.

What Should Buyers Bring Up During the Home Inspection?

1. What Is the Condition of the Roofing System?

A roof safeguards the home from the elements. If it is leaking, it can lead to significant structural problems both inside and outside. For example, mold may form in the attic, the walls and ceiling may develop water stains, and the drywall may weaken as a result of moisture intrusion. Avoid buying the home until these roofing issues get resolved.

2. Is the Foundation in Good Condition?

When the soil underneath the property can no longer support the structure, it can cause the foundation to weaken and eventually sink. This can affect your safety as much as your comfort. Doors and windows may stick because they no longer sit correctly in their frames. Cracks may also develop above doors and windows, reappearing each time they're patched. The floors may also be uneven.

These issues worsen with time, so professionals should be called in immediately. Piering involves adding structures beneath the foundation to create a new support system. Alternatively, slab jacking is a less invasive method where grout is injected into the ground to help push the foundation back up where it belongs.

Typical foundation repairs cost about $4,300; however, some cases can be much more expensive. Talk to the inspector about the degree of damage so you can renegotiate with the seller.

3. Does the House Meet Code Requirements?

Aging pipes are common in older homes. These can cause leaks, low water pressure, and even rusty water. Similarly, old wiring may pose a fire risk since it was not designed to support modern electrical needs.

A home inspector will need to look at these systems and confirm that they meet current code requirements. If not, discuss replacing them with the seller before closing. They might pay to fix the issues themselves or agree that you can pay a lower amount for the property if you arrange for repairs on your own. If they refuse to do either, you should consider another house.

Are you seeking a dependable professional to perform a home inspection? Turn to the team at A-Pro® Home Inspection in Denver, CO. Proudly serving locals since 1994, the company offers skilled property inspections. They also perform radon testing and mold inspections to ensure that the home is as safe as can be. To find out more about their capabilities, visit them online. Call (303) 875-7627 to schedule an appointment.