Separating Fact From Fiction When It Comes to Pre-Purchase Inspections
When you're ready to buy a home, you want to ensure it goes through proper inspections, even if it's relatively new and seems to be in good repair. Your mortgage lender will usually have an inspection done to ensure the building is up to local codes, but there are some misconceptions about the entire inspection process that you might have, and some other factors you may be overlooking when it comes to pre-purchase inspections for a home. Note a few considerations to keep in mind so you separate the fact from the fiction about pre-purchase inspections, and are sure you buy a home that's safe and in good repair.
Being present during an inspection
You may think that it's best if you're not at the home when an inspection is being conducted, or you may assume that you can dictate what the inspector should examine. In truth, many inspectors prefer to have buyers present during the inspection, so they can answer questions and explain their findings, although they may limit the areas of the home you can be in, for your safety.
However, an inspector has a set list of things they inspect and methods they use for inspection. They don't take direction as to what to inspect and how to do it, like directing a cleaning person you hire to clean your house. Ask an inspector about your presence during the inspection and any questions you have during the work, but be sure you're also letting them do their job!
"Passing" an inspection
Most inspections for homes are not conducted on a pass-fail basis; an inspection simply provides you with a report on the overall condition of the home. You would then make a decision about repairs that need to be done, if you want to have the home fumigated, if you should lower your offer to the seller and the like.
Understanding boundaries
A home inspection doesn't typically include an inspection of the property itself, other than perhaps the plumbing pipes and electrical wiring that come to the home. If you're worried about boundaries, an easement, nearby development, if the home is on a flood plane and the like, you would need a surveyor's report. This report includes a survey of the actual property in order to note boundaries and all these other details. Ask your real estate agent about such a report and how to arrange it, if you have concerns about the property and not just the home itself.