The Do’s Of Home Inspections

by Jennifer Paulke

Do get a home inspection completed by a certified home inspector.
Do ask your real estate agent for recommendations. We have been through many home inspections and have a list of inspectors who have performed well for our past clients.
Do ask the inspector about radon, air quality, and termite inspections. The inspector is the expert, so they can speak about the prevalence of issues relating to these items.
Do request a wind mitigation report (for single-family homes). Your insurance company will require this report.
Do request a 4-Point inspection report. Your insurance company will require this for homes that are older than 20 years. Some require this report for newer homes as well.
Do expect a significant number of deficiencies to be reported on the inspection report. Even newer homes typically have 10 or more items.
Do consider scheduling a home inspection even if you are purchasing a new construction home.
Do ask the inspector questions on the day of the inspection, but stay out of their way. They will inspect all the appliances, electrical systems, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and the roof, as well as many other features of the home.
Do plan to attend the inspection if you wish, but consider coming without extended family or friends. The inspector can work more efficiently and without distractions if there are fewer people in the home. The seller, the seller’s agent, and your agent will all potentially be at the inspection. If you want to invite friends or family members to view the home, it is best to do so during a second showing or ask your agent if the inspection appointment would be an appropriate time to do so.
Do keep in mind that you are buying a “used” home (unless new construction), so you should not expect the seller to repair every deficiency.
Do consider having your home inspector return to inspect items the seller agrees to repair.