Page 34 - KIRKHAM AZHG

THE 411 ON

HOME INSPECTIONS

The Sellers are required to Schedule the inspection as • Other visible features,
disclose the known condition quickly as possible. Expect to fixtures, and components.
of the house, but it is important hire the inspector directly, and Inspections are not intrusive,
to have a professional inspect pay at the time of service. so only visible aspects of the
the home. When it comes property can be evaluated.
to inspecting the home, you THE INSPECTOR Issues that may exist within
want an inspector who will be CAN EVALUATE THE inaccessible areas, such as walls,
thorough and trustworthy. Ask FOLLOWING: may remain unknown.
for recommendations from • Roof
friends and family and/or search • Foundation PEST INSPECTION
out reviews online. Look for • Drainage The inspector will perform an
proper licensing, and you can • Plumbing examination for wood destroying
even ask a potential inspector • Electrical pest infestations, and this
for references. • Fireplaces/Chimneys portion of the report is usually
• Furnace broken down into two sections:
• Section 1 lists conditions
COMMON DEFECTS that are actively damaging

FOUND DURING the property. Usually
repairs will have to be
HOME INSPECTIONS completed and remediated

before the lender will
Don’t expect the report to be flawless. Inspectors approve your loan.
generally find some routine and minor defects that the • Section 2 lists conditions
Buyer will commonly assume, however, sometimes that will likely cause
inspections will reveal major structural defects and safety damage to your home in
violations. the future.

• Roofing defects – age, wear, and improper installation The inspector will create a
• Ceiling Stains – point toward active or past issues with report detailing all of their
leaking roofs, plumbing, or appliances recommendations complete
• Water Intrusions – particularly in basements – improper with pictures, and may suggest
drainage around the house you contact a specialist such as
• Electrical Safety Hazards – old, ungrounded outlets, non GFI a structural engineer to further
(ground fault interrupter) outlets, improperly wired panels, assess situations outside the
outdated wiring inspector’s scope.
• Rotten Wood – commonly on trim, roof eaves, and decks If significant defects are found
• Building Code Violations – unpermitted structures/ during the inspection, you may
additions, safety issues, DIY gone wrong be able to negotiate with the
• Unsafe Fireplace and Chimney Conditions – insufficient Seller to determine who will pay
distance between fireplace and combustible materials, for the repairs, or if the contract
lack of chimney cleaning and maintenance is contingent upon a satisfactory
• Minor Plumbing Defects – loose toilets, leaking inspection you may cancel the
faucets, improper drainage sale without penalty.
• Failed Seals around Windows

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