Pre-purchase Inspections

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 A pre-purchase building inspection (also known as a home inspection) is a professional, independent assessment of a property's physical condition, conducted before a real estate purchase is finalized. The primary goal is to uncover any significant defects, safety hazards, or major maintenance issues so the buyer can make an informed decision. 

• Purpose: The inspection provides a detailed report to the buyer, which can be used as a powerful negotiation tool for price reductions or to request that the seller makes necessary repairs before closing. It also helps the buyer understand their future maintenance budget.
• Scope: The inspection is typically visual and covers accessible areas of the home. Key areas include:
  • Structure: Foundation, framing, walls, ceilings, and roof structure.
  • Exterior: Roof, gutters, siding, windows, doors, driveways, and lot drainage.
  • Systems: Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are thoroughly checked for functionality and safety hazards.
  • Interior: Floors, walls, ceilings, windows, doors, attic, and basement are inspected for signs of water damage, mold, or structural issues.
• Specialized Inspections: Buyers often order additional specialized inspections for specific concerns, such as pest infestations (termites, rodents), mold, radon, or a sewer line scope.
• Limitations: The inspection may not identify every single potential issue, as it is non-invasive (inspectors won't move furniture or break open walls). The report focuses on the condition of the property, not cosmetic issues or building code compliance. 

• Timing: The inspection is usually conducted after the seller has accepted an offer, but the purchase contract includes an inspection contingency that allows the buyer to back out or renegotiate based on the findings.
• Duration: The inspection typically takes between 2-4 days. 
• Report: The inspector provides a comprehensive written report, usually within a couple of days, which includes detailed descriptions and images of any issues found. The buyer and their agent then review the report to plan their next steps.