How to get a Professional Home Inspection Done on a Home

Before you buy a new home, however lovely it may seem, a professional house inspection will always uncover those hidden defects that can turn a dream home into a nightmare.

Things you will need:

A friendly Realtor who can recommend an efficient house inspection service.
House Inspectors.
A lawyer experienced in real estate matters.
A legal note pad or notebook.
A flashlight with a new battery.
A digital camera.

Step 1

Once you have drawn up the sales contract and signed it, you will need to schedule time for a house inspection. Be sure to ask your Realtor for the name of a good Inspector. It helps if the company or individual is affiliated to a professional body like the “American Society of Home Inspectors”

Step 2

Be sure you have instructed your lawyer to include a clause in the contract that the sale is dependant on the outcome of the house inspection. Most good lawyers will know this anyway. The contract needs to stipulate who is responsible for paying the repair costs involved.

Step 3

The house inspection. Be sure to take the day off work so you can accompany the Inspector as he looks for defects in your new property. He will be able to show you the problem so you fully understand the situation. Be sure to bring a flashlight and a notepad to the inspection. Use the camera to photograph damaged or problem areas. You can use these photos later to insure agreed repairs have been carried out. You need to take notes, bit the Inspector will send you a written report of his findings. Except in the case of small apartments; expect the inspection to last at least two hours.

Step 4

The Inspector will test built in appliances like the central heating and air conditioning as well as the water and electrical system. Bring in specialists if swimming pools or Jacuzzis are involved. If the property is in a problem area that is prone to floods or earthquakes, you will again need to rely on the services of a specialist, Whatever you do, pay particular attention to the roof. A bad roof will be a very expensive discomfort. Finally, don’t forget that older houses can often have the presence of lead paint. Check it out in anything built prior to 1978.

Step 5

The cost of the inspection will be in the region of $300. This will vary with location and size of the property.

Step 6

Never get carried away by emotion. It may be a dream home but be sure to have it properly inspected. Dread tales abound concerning those who allowed their hearts to rule their heads!

Tips

Check out the neighborhood. A friend of mine once bought a house next to a silver mine. She found they were mining under her house and consequently suffered subsidence problems. If your Inspector does not know about these things find one who does.