Home inspections are more than just a way to make sure that the home you’re buying is suitable for your family. Understanding what to look out in a home inspection can help you identify any potential problems and, if you have the leverage, determine what repairs should be done on the seller’s behalf before you move day.

These home inspection tips are for buyers. They will help you prepare for the inspection.

You should vet more than one inspector for your home.

You should choose a home inspector who is trustworthy and experienced. A real estate agent might recommend an inspector. The seller may offer to provide a report from a previous home inspection in Hope Mills NC. Independent home inspectors are a good choice to avoid conflicts of interest and get objective information about the condition of the house. You might also want to look into inspectors as you house hunt because things can move quickly once an offer has been accepted.

Some professional associations can help you find a qualified home inspector. Not all states require home inspectors hold licenses. To be eligible for membership, members of the American Society of Home Inspectors must perform 250 or more inspections and pass a National Home Inspector Examination.

Get a home inspection before you start any new construction.

A home inspection is a must, even if you are buying new construction. A home inspector might evaluate a house differently to a municipal or county inspector. Their job is to ensure that new construction meets building codes. A home inspector double-checks that there are no loose ends or unconnected ducts.

Do you plan to attend the home inspection?

Buyers should be present at the home inspection. You can ask questions by following the inspector around from room to room. This will allow you to better understand the inspection report, which can be quite intense, especially for first-time home buyers. It will also help you learn more about the potential home.

Remember that your home inspector may not be able to give you a complete picture. While you can ask all the questions you want, your home inspector might not be able or willing to answer any questions beyond what is required by contract.

Do not interfere with the home inspector

You are welcome to join the inspection team and ask questions. However, you should not interfere with the home inspector. It is better to stay with them than to move on to other areas of the house. It could cause problems if you run the kitchen sink while they are checking the water pressure in the bathroom.

Do not be afraid to negotiate with sellers

It is unreasonable to expect the seller will take care of all items in an inspection report. A thorough home inspection can easily identify dozens of defects. However, you might be able to negotiate the cost for major repairs not listed in the disclosure.

Avoid submitting a long list. It’s also not worth trying to negotiate minor repairs if you have plans to renovate.

You can ask the seller for help if you have any larger problems. It is possible to ask for a re-inspection prior to closing, or to see receipts to prove that professional work was done.

You can also request a credit from seller or negotiate a lower sale price. Although finding someone to do the repairs after you move-in is more work, it might be the best arrangement. You won’t have to hold off on the sale and can hire any contractors.

Do not assume that the home inspector is liable

Safety is the main concern of a home inspector, but they are not your keeper. You might not get much assurance if there are undiscovered issues with your inspection contract. Your home inspector may offer some limited warranties.

Their contract defines the inspector’s responsibilities, which limits their legal liability. A clause limiting your ability to file lawsuits in the event of a disaster, such as an arbitration clause, could limit your ability. Even if you could file a lawsuit, you may not be able to receive the full amount of compensation. You might only get the cost for the inspection.