Should I Hire a Home Inspector Before Moving?
Hiring a home inspector is an important step in the process of buying a new home. It allows you to identify potential problems before you sign a mortgage agreement. Some problems in homes are obvious and easy to identify, such as cracking foundation, but other problems are more discreet and require the keen eye of an experienced home inspector.
Purpose of a Home Inspection
A typical home inspection consists of a thorough inspection of the home’s major systems, including (but not limited to) the foundation, water heater, exhaust vents, bathrooms, siding, roof, plumbing, electrical, heating ventilation and cooling (HVAC), and drainage. Depending on the home’s size, age and location, it may last anywhere from two to four hours.
Although not required, it’s recommended that buyers accompany the home inspector during the inspection. During the inspection, you can ask questions about potential problems and areas of concern. Reputable home inspectors should willingly allow you to accompany them during the inspection.
Once the inspection is complete, the home inspector will create a detailed written report of any safety issues, defects, items that need replacing and/or servicing, and items that should be monitored. File this report in a safe location so you can easily access it in the future.
When To Hire a Home Inspector
It’s not uncommon for potential home buyers to submit a purchase offer on a home under the contingency of a home inspection in which no major problems are identified. In other words, you can submit an offer before hiring a home inspector. If the home inspector finds any serious underlying issues, however, you are free to withdrawal your offer.
Tips on Choosing a Professional Home Inspector:
- Check to make sure the home inspector is licensed in the respective state of which you are moving (note: some states do not require licensing).
- Visit the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) website for standing and resolved complaints.
- Check to see if the home inspector is a member of any organizations like the American Society of Home Inspectors, the National Society of Professional Engineers, or the National Institute of Building Inspectors.
- Look for past customer reviews on sites like Yelp.com and Angie’s List.
- If you are purchasing a special type of property, such as a commercial building, ask the inspector if he or she has experience with this type of property.
Home inspections aren’t cheap (usually cost several hundred dollars), but it’s a smart investment that can save you time, money and heartache in the long run.
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