A home inspection examines a property’s safety and current condition. A buyer typically arranges and pays for a home inspection. It should be conducted after the home seller accepts an offer, but before the buyer purchases the home. A qualified inspector assesses the heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems. The inspector also checks for fire hazards, insect damage, or any other issue affecting the property’s value.
Most buyers include a home inspection contingency in their offer. This allows them to renegotiate, request repairs, or withdraw the offer if unhappy with the inspection results. Although a home inspection provides valuable information, it’s not a guarantee. Inspectors analyze systems and components to estimate remaining lifespans. But they can’t predict the future.
A home inspection takes at least a couple of hours depending on the property’s size. It’s a good idea for buyers to be present during the process. That way they can ask any questions that come up.