Hiring a home inspector allows you to buy a house with confidence, knowing that the house is safe and liveable. However, getting your home inspected doesn’t guarantee that you’ll avoid all obstacles. It is important that when you hire an inspector, you also play an active role in the inspection process. Before you get your home inspected, it’s a good idea to learn about some common missteps in order to avoid them along the way. Here are a few mistakes you won’t want to make:
1) Only getting one recommendation
Many people find a home inspector based on the suggestion of their real estate agent. To be sure the inspector is top notch, it’s best to get multiple recommendations. In addition to asking neighbors and friends for suggestions, use the American Society of Home Inspectors to ensure that you hire a qualified professional. When you meet the inspector, it is a good idea to interview them to find out more about their background and training as well as how they work. You should also find out whether they attend continuing education classes, whether they are licensed and insured, and whether you are comfortable with their style of communication.
2) Not turning on utilities
In a typical home inspection, the utilities will still be connected by the sellers. However, sometimes it is the buyer’s responsibility to turn on the utilities for an inspection. If your utilities are not turned on, you won’t obtain a lot of important information during the inspection. For example, you won’t know whether the pipes leak, whether the dishwasher drains properly, or if the water flow is sufficient.
3) Not attending the inspection
Some people don’t realize that they can attend the inspection. The reason for this confusion is that buyers get a report from the inspector after the job is done. However, many good inspectors expect the buyer to be there. This way, the inspector can let the buyer know about any problems found and whether anything needs fixing. There is also the unfortunate possibility that your inspector may cut corners. That’s another reason to attend. Make sure your inspector checks every hard-to-get-to area, regardless of snow, rain, or construction debris.
4) Not asking questions
If you aren’t a contractor, chances are you won’t know a lot about the plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems. This can be intimidating, but don’t be afraid to ask questions when you attend the inspection. Any good inspectors will thoroughly answer all of your questions. If you don’t understand something your inspector told you, feel free to ask for clarification.
5) Not taking the report seriously
After you’ve gone to the trouble of finding a house, putting in an offer and paying for inspection, you may be eager to buy the house. However, it is important to remember that an inspection is more than just a formality. You will need to take the results into consideration. You may need to pass on the deal if the inspector finds problems that the seller will not address, depending on how severe the problems are. This will reduce your chances of having any large problems down the road.
Getting your house inspected is a necessary step in the purchase of a home. When you hire an inspector, make sure you’re taking the proper steps to have the house fully checked by a professional.