Buying a house is one of the biggest investments most people will make in a lifetime. No matter if you’re a first-time homebuyer, seasoned real estate investors, or simply someone looking for that dream house, some knowledge of what to look for in a home inspection will save you time, money, and frustration. A proper home inspection helps to ensure that you’re spending your money wisely and gives peace of mind for the house that you’re purchasing.

This guide also contains a comprehensive checklist so that you can get the most out of your home inspection experience.

The Importance of a Home Inspection

A home inspection is your opportunity to discover whether a home has hidden issues prior to signing on the dotted line. Skipping the inspection—or not knowing what to look for—can translate into tens of thousands of dollars in repairs down the road. From faulty plumbing to a foundation crack, knowing about an issue beforehand can lead to bargaining power or make you walk away from a bad deal.

Preparing for the Inspection

Before inspection day, it is good to be ready. Here is how:

  • Review Seller Disclosures: Sellers are typically requested to disclose issues that they are aware of regarding the property. Utilize this report to assist in prioritizing your inspection.
  • Hire an Experienced Inspector: Look for licensed professionals with good reputations and experience inspecting homes similar to the one you’re buying.
  • Do the Basics Yourself: Take a walk around the house and identify any cracks, leaks, or other problems prior to calling in the professional inspector.

Major Areas to Inspect

The following is a list of important areas to inspect in a home inspection:

1. Structure and Foundation

The foundation is the absolute foundation of a house. Any problems here can signal major structural problems. Look for:

  • Cracks in walls or floors
  • Doors or windows that will not close
  • Slanted floors
  • Wall and ceiling separations

2. Roof and Attic

Your roof protects your home from the outside world, so it is best to make sure it is in great condition.

  • Look for missing or damaged shingles
  • Look for water damage or leaks
  • Check the attic for ventilation and insulation

A professional inspector may use a drone or camera to get a closer view of areas that are not accessible.

3. Plumbing System

A faulty plumbing system can cause water damage, which is one of the costliest issues to fix. Some of the essential checks include:

  • Faucets and showers for water pressure
  • Exposed pipes for rust or leaks
  • Slow-draining tubs or sinks, which can indicate blockages

4. Electrical System

Electrical safety during a home inspection is not worth the risk. Ensure that the inspector checks:

  • Circuit breakers and wiring
  • GFI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms (now mandatory in new construction in wet areas)
  • The fuse box for old or broken items

5. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Your comfort, as well as energy bills, depend to a great extent on a functional HVAC system.

  • Verify the heating and cooling systems are operative
  • Research the age and history of maintenance of the HVAC system
  • Look into rust, dirt buildup, or strange noises when operating the system

6. Windows, Doors, and Insulation

Draft-proofing and energy efficiency are crucial. Verify:

  • Windows for cracking, water between panes, or opening/closing difficulty
  • Doors for alignment and sealing
  • Insulation in walls, crawl spaces, and basements

Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector

Don’t hesitate to pose questions to the inspector throughout. Communicate excessively and don’t make assumptions. Some good questions to ask are:

  • What is the state of the roof, and how many more years will it last before it requires replacement?
  • Are there any major red flags in the home’s plumbing or electrical systems?
  • Is there any indication of previous water damage, and was it repaired?
  • What are the most essential repairs that are needed, and how pressing are they?

Know When to Negotiate or Walk Away

Once the home inspection report is complete, you’ll need to decide your next steps. Use this opportunity to negotiate:

  • Request Repairs: If the inspection reveals significant issues, ask the seller to address them before closing.
  • Request Credits: If you’re willing to handle the repairs yourself, negotiate a lower sale price or cash credit.
  • Know When to Walk Away: Sometimes, the issues raised in the inspection report may not be worth the time, money, or stress to resolve. Protect your financial and emotional well-being by walking away when necessary.

Ready to try your hand at it yourself on your home inspection? 

A thorough home inspection is a buyer’s best way of arriving at a firm, well-founded decision. By preparing, understanding what to search for, and leveraging your findings during negotiations, you are able to protect your investment—and your peace of mind.

For more homeownership tips, give one of our real estate experts a call today.