Due diligence is a big part of making a responsible home purchase. The home inspection is central to this process because it’s a chance for you to have a professional look over the home to see if there are any major issues that need to be addressed.
A standard home inspection covers all the major structures and systems in a home. This includes the HVAC, roof, foundation, plumbing, insulation, ceilings, floors, walls, appliances, windows and doors. While the inspector won’t test every outlet, they look for signs that there are deeper problems. The home inspection isn’t the same as an appraisal or code inspection, so remember it’s just a look at the overall condition of the home.
What happens if issues are found?
If the inspector finds problems—and most do, even in newer homes—you typically receive a detailed report outlining what was discovered. These issues can range from minor cosmetic flaws to serious structural or safety concerns.
What happens next depends on the findings and the terms of the purchase agreement. In many cases, you can request repairs, ask for a price reduction or negotiate a credit at closing to cover the cost of the work. In some situations, particularly when major defects are uncovered, you may have the option to walk away from the deal entirely.
Sellers aren’t always obligated to fix everything, but you aren’t obligated to accept the property as-is either. That’s why inspections are such a crucial part of the homebuying process—they give both parties a chance to evaluate the deal more fully before it’s finalized.
Reviewing the inspection report carefully and prioritizing issues by urgency and cost can help you make informed decisions about next steps. It may behoove you to work with someone familiar with these matters so you can protect your finances and investment.