What is a home inspection and why does it matter? These are questions we get often —and for good reason. Before purchasing a property, most buyers want to see a home inspection report, but not all buyers know what to look for in a home inspection. We review the key points that all home buyers should be aware of when getting a home inspection.
An expert eye can catch all kinds of things you might miss, from plumbing defects to structural problems. Some issues are more serious than others. Knowing the difference can help you make a more informed purchase.
You’ll have a better idea of whether to place an offer or walk away. With a little expert guidance, you may even be able to negotiate a better price.
What does a home inspection cover, and what does a home inspector look for? Here are just a few things to watch out for.
Are you searching for houses for sale in Hamilton or Burlington? Start by browsing a few of our featured listings.
Dampness in the Basement
Water damage is one of the primary things a house inspector looks for when you are considering buying a house. If your report notes any dampness, you’ll want to figure out where it’s coming from. Is it a burst pipe or plumbing leak? An improperly sealed basement?
Depending on the source, it could be an easy fix, a costly repair or an ongoing problem. One of the worst-case scenarios is mold. In addition to making it harder to sell your home in the future, this nasty surprise can create serious health problems.
If you suspect there may be mold in a home you want to purchase, consider contacting a specialist as this goes beyond the scope of most regular inspections. Better safe than sorry!
The posts below will help shed more light on the home selling process:
- What’s in Your Listing Agreement?
- Is It a Good Time to Sell My House in Ontario?
- How to Price Your Home for the Market
An Old or Damaged Roof
A home inspection will always include checking the roof. A roof built with high-quality materials should remain in good condition for 20 to 25 years, and some can last even longer. On the flipside, damage from wind, rain and general wear and tear can reduce the lifespan of this critical home component.
That’s why it’s so important to have a good sense of the age and condition of the roof for any home you’re considering. If you’ve never replaced one before, trust us: it can get pricey! We’re talking thousands of dollars. Given the cost involved, you may want to try negotiating to get the sellers to replace it for you.
Foundation Cracks
The most important aspect of the inspection report is arguably the structural integrity of a house. Chances are, a home you’re considering will have some cracks in its foundation. Those that run vertically are common, and they’re usually nothing to worry about.
Horizontal cracks may be a sign of something more serious. Fortunately, uncovering flaws like these is what a home inspector does. A foundation expert can tell you how structurally sound a home actually is—before you sign that purchase agreement.
Once you’ve read your report, feel free to follow up about any foundation cracks they may have found. If there’s any uncertainty, bringing in a specialist may be your best bet. Alternatively, you may ask your Realtor® to move on and show you the next listing.
Outdated Wiring
A key focus that home inspectors check is wiring. Outdated or faulty wiring is a leading cause of house fires. A detailed home inspection report can help you determine whether the home you’re considering is at higher-than-average risk.
The biggest thing to look out for is knob and tube wiring. This method is no longer used for new houses, though it can still be found in a lot of older homes. We want to stress that knob and tube wiring isn’t always dangerous. Issues mostly arise when it’s poorly maintained or repaired using DIY methods.
Are you planning to sell your home? The posts below will help you get the results you’re looking for:
- 8 Important Things to Remember When Selling Your Home
- How to Sell Your House Fast
- What’s Your House Really Worth?
Grading
A home inspection will also cover an assessment of the grading around the home.“Grading” has to do with the slope of your land and the direction that water runs in. This isn’t just about how your landscaping looks.
Improper grading can lead to pooled water around your home, foundation problems and even basement flooding. To avoid these issues, be sure to ask your home inspector if you have any unanswered questions about a home’s drainage and grading.
Ready to start your search or wondering how to find a home inspector? Our top agents in Hamilton & Burlington can help you make connections and secure the perfect house. Get in touch or call 905-332-9223 to take the next step.
