What Lies Beneath: Understanding What a Home Inspection Covers

If you’re considering buying a home, you’ll likely want to have a home inspection conducted before making an offer. A home inspection is an integral step in the home-buying process because it can reveal any issues or problems with the home that may not be immediately obvious to the naked eye. In this blog post, we’ll cover what a standard home inspection covers: the foundation, roof, electrical system, plumbing system, heating and cooling systems, interior and exterior condition, mold and pest infestations, and environmental hazards.

What Does a Home Inspection Covers?

• Foundation
  

  The foundation is essential to any home, as it supports the entire structure. During a home inspection, the inspector will look for cracks, shifting, or settling in the foundation. They’ll also examine the basement or crawl space for moisture or water damage signs. Common issues with foundations include cracks, settling, and water damage.

   

• Roof

  The roof is another critical component of a home, as it protects the interior from the elements. During a home inspection, the inspector will look for any signs of wear and tear or damage on the roof. They’ll also examine the gutters and downspouts to ensure they function correctly. Common issues with roofs include missing or damaged shingles, leaks, and improper drainage.

   

• Electrical System
  

  A safe and functioning electrical system is essential for any home. During a home inspection, the licensed inspector will examine the electrical panel, outlets, and light fixtures to ensure they’re up to code and functioning correctly. Common issues with electrical systems include outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and unsafe outlets.

   

• Plumbing System
  

  The plumbing system is responsible for bringing clean water into the home and removing waste water. During a typical home inspection, the inspector will examine the pipes, fixtures, and water heater to ensure they’re in good working order. Common issues with plumbing systems include leaky pipes, clogged drains, and a faulty water heater.

   

• Heating and Cooling Systems
  

  The heating and cooling systems are solely responsible for keeping the home at a comfortable temperature year-round. During a home inspection, the trained inspector will examine the furnace, air conditioning unit, and ductwork to ensure they function correctly. Common issues with heating and cooling systems include a faulty furnace, a leaky air conditioning unit, and poorly insulated ductwork.

   

• Interior and Exterior Condition
  

  A home’s interior and exterior condition are essential when buying a home. During a home inspection, the certified inspector will examine the walls, floors, windows, and doors to ensure they’re in good condition. They’ll also examine the home’s exterior, including the siding, windows, and doors. Common issues with a home’s interior and exterior condition include water damage, mold, and rotting wood.

   

• Mold and Pest Infestations
  

  Mold and pest infestations can cause significant damage to a home and can be a health hazard. During a home inspection, the inspector will look for any signs of mold or pest infestations, including rodents, insects, and termites. Common mold and pest infestation issues include mold growth, rodent droppings, and termite damage.

   

• Environmental Hazards
  

  Environmental hazards, such as radon and asbestos, can also be health hazards and should be identified during a home inspection. During a home inspection, the inspector will look for any signs of environmental hazards and recommend further testing if necessary. Common environmental hazards include radon, asbestos, and lead-based paint.

How much does a standard home inspection cost?

The cost of a standard home inspection can vary depending on various factors, including the size and location of the home, the inspector’s experience and qualifications, and the scope of the inspection. On average, a home inspection can cost anywhere from $300 to $500.
While the cost of a home inspection may seem high, it’s important to remember that it can save you money in the long run by identifying potential issues before they become major problems. Additionally, suppose the inspection uncovers any significant issues. In that case, you may be able to negotiate with the seller to either have the issues addressed before closing. Furthermore, you can even lower the home’s purchase price.

It’s also important to note that while a home inspection can give you a good idea of the home’s condition, it’s not a guarantee that there won’t be any issues in the future. Homeowners should still budget for unexpected repairs and maintenance, even after a home inspection.
In some cases, hiring additional inspectors to examine specific areas of the home, such as the sewer line or the chimney, may be beneficial. These specialized inspections can cost extra, but they can provide valuable information about the true condition of these specific areas.

While a home inspection may seem like an additional expense in home-buying, it’s well worth the investment. In fact, a home inspection can actually save you money in the long run. Identifying potential issues before they become significant problems can help save money.

The Bottom Line

In summary, a standard home inspection covers a wide range of components in a home and is an essential step of the home-buying process. A home inspection can lend you peace of mind and save you money in the long run by identifying any issues before they become significant problems. If you’re considering buying a home, schedule a thorough inspection to ensure you’re making a wise investment in your future.