Planning to buy a new home? It is an exciting, life-changing event.
However, arguments and heartbreak can occur if issues are not discovered during a home inspection. Most real estate laws need home inspections to ensure potential buyers know what they’re getting into.
Home inspections are for the buyer, not the seller. A home inspection aims to help the buyer make an informed decision. Otherwise, the buyer may need help with major issues after signing the sales contract.
The types of home inspections depend on the buyer’s desired level of protection. Read on as we discuss standard inspection terms, their differences, and the benefits of home inspections.
1. Pre-sale Inspections
These inspections are conducted by a professional inspector and usually cover the exterior and interior of the house. It includes significant system checks, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical, plumbing, and drainage systems.
The inspector evaluates the condition of these systems. The seller then informs the buyer of any repairs or maintenance that need to be completed before buying.
2. Radon Test
Radon is an odorless and colorless gas in a home’s indoor air. It’s the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
It involves a professional home inspector or certified radon measurement specialist going into the home and placing a testing device in the lowest livable area of the house. It will measure the levels of radon gas.
Homeowners should ensure they have an inspector who can perform a radon test. This is to find out the radon level of the new home.
Radon testing is specific to the home and location. So it’s crucial to run the test before making a home purchase.
3. Pest Inspection
Pest inspection helps identify any existing pest issues. Such as termites, carpenter ants, or other wood-destroying insects.
It also helps to identify signs of a previous or current pest infestation, such as wood decay, pest droppings, and mud tubes.
Home inspection companies have special tools to inspect homes for infestations. It goes beyond a basic visual inspection and utilizes tools. Such as moisture meters, borescopes, and sounding equipment to identify pest issues.
4. Energy Audit
An energy audit evaluates a home’s energy performance. Such as how much energy it uses, the number of pollutants it is producing, and how it uses, creates and conserves energy.
They will identify sources of energy waste. Such as costly air leaks, unnecessary drafty windows, and inefficient appliances. The auditor also performs a comprehensive review of the home’s insulation, water heating system, and any other mechanical systems.
5. Specialized Home Inspections
Specialized home inspections are more thorough than general home inspections. They focus on a specific part when assessing your home. This includes a termite inspection, an electrical inspection, an HVAC inspection, a plumbing inspection, and an asbestos inspection.
These are important because they can identify any overlooked issues during a general home inspection. They can identify problems like faulty wiring, defective HVAC systems, and hazardous asbestos.
Familiarize Yourself With These Types of Home Inspections
A home inspection is a critical step for any home buyer to be aware of. It can help them make more informed decisions about the condition of a home. Knowing what to look for in each of these different types of home inspections will help you make the best decision for your home buying.
Choose a qualified inspector today to get started.
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