If you’re buying a home important step is getting a professional building inspection done. A building inspection is a visual examination of the property’s structure and systems by a qualified inspector. Their role is to identify any existing issues or potential problems so you an informed decision about purchasing the property. While building inspections seem daunting, understanding what to expect helps minimize stress and surprises.
Scheduling the Inspection
The building inspection should be scheduled promptly after your offer is accepted, as most real estate contracts provide a short window for inspections and negotiating repairs. Many buyers schedule the inspection for the first few days after going under contract. Most home inspectors are booked several days or weeks in advance, so be sure to schedule yours right away. Your real estate agent provides recommendations for experienced, licensed inspectors in your area.
What gets inspected?
The scope of a building inspection varies, but quality inspectors follow nationally recognized standards like those set forth by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). At a minimum, the inspector should examine:
- Structure-Foundation, framing, floor/roof structures
- Exterior– Siding, trim, doors/windows, decks/porches
- Roof– Shingles/tiles, flashing, skylights, chimneys
- Electrical- Service panel, outlets, fixtures, fans
- Plumbing- Supply pipes, drain pipes, water heater, fixtures
- HVAC- Heating/cooling systems and equipment
- Insulation and ventilation
- Fireplaces and solid-fuel appliances
- Interior- Floors, walls, ceilings, stairs, railings
- Built-in appliances (ovens, ranges, etc.)
Detached buildings like garages and sheds are typically inspected as well. The inspector will operate systems and components when possible to check their functionality. Expect them to turn on faucets, flush toilets, test electrical outlets, and operate appliances, HVAC systems, fireplaces, and more detail https://vitalbuildinginspection.com.au.
What’s not included?
There are some limitations to what an inspector evaluates. They cannot move furniture, stored items, or insulation to access concealed areas. Nor do they dismantle equipment or systems to inspect readily visible components. Specialized items like pools, spas, private wells, septic systems, lawn irrigation systems, and security systems generally require separate inspections by qualified professionals. The building inspector is also not responsible for detecting environmental hazards like asbestos, mold, lead paint, buried fuel tanks, soil contamination, or pest/termite infestations. These problems require evaluation by specialty inspectors.
Negotiating repairs
Your purchase agreement outlines the timeline and process for requesting repairs or concessions based on the inspection. This contingency period is typically 5-10 days after receiving the report.
With your agent’s guidance, you’ll decide how to proceed. Options include:
- Requesting that the seller makes and pays for necessary repairs
- Asking for a price reduction or closing cost credit to cover repair estimates
- Making no requests and accepting the property “as-is”
- Voiding the purchase contract if significant issues were uncovered
Sellers have several choices as well. They agree to make and pay for some or all requested repairs using qualified contractors. They may offer a price reduction or concession instead of repairs. Or in a hot market, they may refuse to make any concessions. The negotiations go back and forth until an agreement is reached or the contract is terminated, which is why it’s critical to have an experienced agent representing you. Their expertise in evaluating reasonable repair requests, negotiating tactfully, and assessing whether the deal still makes sense proves invaluable.
