05.23.2001 :: Inspections
Understanding the Inspections You May Need Before Purchasing a Home
by Clive Belvoir

When buying a home there are many different types of inspections that you can get to ensure the condition of the home.

Home Inspections

A Home Inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of the house. The prospective homebuyer usually employs the Home Inspectors. A Home Inspector hired by a Buyer or Realtor works in the best interest of the homebuyer.

Termite Inspection

There is the termite inspection, which many lenders require to ensure that there are no active termite infestations in the home that they are financing. If you are buying a home, it is important to be sure that you are not buying a home with excessive termite infestations.

Home Appraisal

You will need an Appraisal in most cases before purchasing a home. In most cases, the lender will hire an Appraiser. According to the Appraisal Institute, the role of a Home Appraiser is to provide a professional opinion. The Home Appraiser provides an estimated market value of the home, to be used in making real estate decisions.

Roofing Inspection

The Home Inspector may also recommend other inspections after thoroughly inspecting the home. Oftentimes the Home Inspector will recommend that a Roofer come out if the Roof is at the end of its useful life. The Roofer can give a bid on a new roof or recommend how the homebuyer can extend the life with minor repair work.

Plumbing and Sewer Line

The Home Inspector may also recommend that a Plumber come out if there is evidence of plumbing or sewer leakage. The Plumber will give a bid on the recommended repair work, so it is clear to the homebuyer.

Septic or Well Inspection

A Septic or Private Well Inspector are not required prior to purchasing a home, but is encouraged. The Inspector will give a bid on the repair work or any recommendations for the future upkeep of the septic tank or well. Not all homes have a septic system or wells. The homes in the distant mountain areas usually do.

Geological Inspection

There are several other inspections that you may need depending on the location of the home, such as a Geological Inspection, to ensure that there has not been movement or sliding damage from an earthquake or heavy rains. A Geological Inspection will give the homebuyer a better understanding of the soil and bedrock conditions on the property. The Geologist will also include an inspection of the following: drainage and erosion conditions, building foundation and retaining wall conditions affected by erosion.

Helpful Home Inspection Suggestions

The Real Estate Agent will guide a homebuyer through the basic inspections and suggest what inspections would be in the homebuyer's best interest. There are inspections that are not necessary, so it is a good idea to consult your Home Inspector for appropriate recommendations. The Home Inspector will not suggest that the homebuyer get additional inspections, if it is not necessary.

It is a very good idea to be present when you hire a Home Inspector, to ensure that all questions and answers are addressed at the time of the inspection. Most Home Inspectors appreciate it if the homebuyer's follow them around and ask questions as they are carefully inspecting each part of the home. It gives the homebuyer the opportunity to visually see the areas that need to be addressed. For the homebuyer's convenience, it is helpful to coordinate the other inspections your Realtor suggests to consolidate your time spent on basic inspections.

With the price of a house today, I think it is a good idea to spend the money on the basic inspections.

Clive Belvoir of Country Home Inspection can be reached at 831.338.6269.