So you’re in the market for a new house... or maybe you’re wondering how to best protect your current digs? Get ready to meet your new best friend: a home inspector.
Often perceived as an optional step, home inspections are the unsung heroes of real estate transactions and home maintenance. They offer a full assessment of a property's condition.
There’s no such thing as a complete and total analysis of a property. If there was, you know we’d help you get it! Home inspection is the closest thing.
We’re here to shed some light on the misconceptions of home inspections and share what official home inspections don't cover. Whether you're buying, selling, or already settled in, here's how a home inspection can help you.
The misconception of optionality
Home inspections are often overlooked or considered optional because people don't realize their value. Many buyers and sellers think of it as an added expense, an unnecessary delay, or even an indication of mistrust in the current owner. However, this misconception overlooks the information and protection that home inspections offer.
Getting a home inspection is not a sign of doubt but actually a smart step in decision-making. It's about being informed — and who doesn't love peace of mind?
Reasons to embrace home inspections
Whether you're finding you're perfect home or looking to understand your current property better, there are many reasons to make home inspections an important part of your real estate journey. Here are a few to consider:
- Informed decision-making: For buyers, a home inspection provides a clearer understanding of the property's condition. It helps you identify potential issues that require attention or negotiation with the seller.
- Negotiation power: Armed with the insights from a home inspection, buyers can negotiate more effectively. Uncovering necessary repairs or improvements gives you leverage to discuss pricing or request repairs before closing.
- Protecting your investment: For sellers, it's a smart move to get a pre-listing inspection. This way, you can be aware of any issues and fix them before listing. Not only will this boost the value of your property, but it'll also prevent any unwelcome surprises during the buyer's inspection that could impact your sale.
- Ensuring safety: By getting a home inspection, you can make sure your family is safe from any potential hazards that you might not see or notice.
- Long-term savings: Addressing issues early on, whether buying or selling, can save you significant costs in the long run. Preventing a minor issue from becoming a major problem can save you lots of money!
- Planning for upgrades: Home inspections offer a road map for future upgrades and maintenance. Knowing what needs attention allows you to plan and budget for improvements over time.
Beyond the surface: What's not covered
While official home inspections provide a detailed evaluation of a property's visible elements, they have limitations. Here are some key aspects that are NOT typically covered by standard home inspections:
- Environmental hazards: Home inspections may not include assessments for environmental hazards like mold, radon, asbestos or lead. These invisible threats can have serious health implications and financial consequences if not addressed promptly.
- Pest infestations: While some inspectors might spot obvious signs of pests, only specialized pest inspections will clock hidden infestations. It's worth addressing, considering hidden infestations can cause extensive damage if left untreated.
- Separate structures: We’re talking swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, saunas and sheds. These complex systems require specific evaluations to ensure they're functioning correctly.
- Structural integrity: Although home inspectors examine the visible structural components, they might not have the tools or expertise to do an in-depth structural assessment. Planning a big renovation? If you're removing a wall or adding an extra room, it's smart to hire a structural engineer. They'll take a deeper look at the structural integrity of your home.
- Appliances: While some home inspectors evaluate essential appliances, they might not give a lot of detail. They also won’t look at non-attached components like window air conditioners, electric fireplaces, and microwaves. Oh, and don’t forget the central vac — they won’t be peeking at that either! If the home has high-end or specialized appliances, you might want to consider a separate appliance inspection.
- Out of sight, out of mind: Anything that is not readily visible or accessible won't be included in a home inspection. Including sewer pipe inspections, water supply and quality, and any hidden defects inside the walls.
- Aesthetics: Home inspectors also won't prioritize cosmetic fixtures or finishes, such as paint or window coverings.
The Rümi difference
Our Rümi professionals offer both a Home Maintenance Inspection and a Certified Home Inspection. What's the difference?
A Certified Home Inspection evaluates the exterior, interior and major systems to identify any structural, electrical, plumbing, or other issues that could impact the property's value or be a safety risk. This inspection is extremely valuable in your home-buying or selling journey.
A Home Maintenance Inspection is for ongoing monitoring and preventative measures as a homeowner. Don't wait till that pipe bursts! Complete a yearly inspection to identify issues before they become problems. This helps keep you, your home (and your bank account) happy.
Have questions about the ins and outs of your home? Our Ask a Home Inspector Subscription has the answers. Our experts will assess your home issue via phone or video call and determine the next steps, whether that's how to fix it yourself or direct you to a pro.
