In the journey to finding the perfect home, we’ve gathered insights from real estate brokers and roofing experts to pinpoint what to scrutinize during a home inspection. From the critical task of inspecting the roof condition to ensuring the safety of the electrical system, explore the top fourteen pieces of advice these professionals offer for prospective homebuyers. Here are 14 essential factors to consider during a home inspection:
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- Inspect Roof Condition Thoroughly
- Check Foundation Integrity
- Look for Water Damage Signs
- Assess Structural Integrity
- Consider Additional Inspections
- Evaluate Natural Light Availability
- Beware of Poor DIY Workmanship
- Inspect Sewage Lateral Line
- Test for Indoor Air Pollutants
- Observe Signs of Foundation Damage
- Examine Roof and Structural Warranties
- Check HVAC System Functionality
- Identify Deferred Maintenance Issues
- Ensure Electrical System Safety
Inspect Roof Condition Thoroughly
One crucial aspect homebuyers should scrutinize during a home inspection is the condition of the roof. From my extensive experience in real estate across Hilton Head Island, a damaged or aging roof can lead to costly repairs and potential insurance complications. I always advise clients to ensure a thorough inspection of the roof is conducted—not just a visual check from the ground, but an up-close assessment—to avoid any unforeseen expenses post-purchase.
Dino DiNenna, Real Estate Broker, Hilton Head Realty Sales
Check Foundation Integrity
Foundation integrity is one of the most important features to consider during a home inspection. The foundation is the bedrock of a home, quite literally. It supports everything above it, and any issues here can lead to major structural problems throughout the property. During a home inspection, checking the foundation’s integrity is paramount because it ensures the long-term stability and safety of the home. Cracks, settling, or moisture infiltration can be signs of serious issues that, if left unaddressed, could lead to costly repairs or even catastrophic failure.
James Heartquist, Real Estate Expert, Modern Property Solutions
Look for Water Damage Signs
One key thing I always tell homebuyers to look for during a home inspection is any signs of water damage. Water damage can lead to costly repairs and even health hazards. I once had a client who didn’t pay attention to water stains on the ceiling during an inspection, only to discover a massive mold issue later on. Therefore, always check for water damage to ensure a safe and sound investment in your new home.
Adam Seguin, Owner, Myrtle Beach Home Buyers
Assess Structural Integrity
A crucial aspect that homebuyers should look for during a home inspection is the structural integrity of the property. This includes checking for any signs of water damage, cracks in the foundation or walls, and any sagging or uneven floors. It is important to thoroughly inspect the structure of a home as it can significantly impact its safety and longevity.
Inspectors will typically check for any structural issues by examining the roof, walls, foundation, and other load-bearing components of the house. They may also use specialized tools such as moisture meters and infrared cameras to identify potential problem areas that are not visible to the naked eye. It is important for homebuyers to carefully review the structural inspection report and address any concerns with the seller or their real estate agent.
Purchasing a home with significant structural damage can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. By prioritizing the assessment of a property’s structural integrity during a home inspection, buyers can make informed decisions and avoid potential financial burdens in the future. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to such an important investment like buying a new home.
Brett Iwanowicz, Owner, Brett Buys Roc Houses
Consider Additional Inspections
Always think about additional inspections and special features when you’re buying a home. Consider things like a sprinkler system or a swimming pool, and definitely get them checked out before closing. Septic systems, in particular, can be super expensive to fix or replace, so make sure they’re inspected too.
During the inspection, if the inspector finds something that needs further investigation, like signs of mold, it’s worth getting extra tests done. Indoor air quality testing or mold sampling can save you a lot of hassle down the line. Getting these additional inspections done before you buy can help you avoid major surprises and problems later on. It’s way cheaper to pay for an inspection upfront than to deal with costly repairs after you’ve moved in.
Michael E. Farah, Founder, Realtor and Real Estate Attorney, The Farah Law Firm, P.C.
Evaluate Natural Light Availability
Natural light is a crucial aspect for homebuyers to consider during a home inspection. As a successful real estate professional, I’ve seen how it can transform a living space, enhancing its visual appeal and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
When touring a property, observe how sunlight filters through windows and illuminates different rooms throughout the day. Consider the home’s orientation and how it affects natural light in key living areas like the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms.
Homes filled with natural light often feel more spacious, inviting, and conducive to a healthier indoor environment. Beyond practical benefits, natural light has a profound effect on mood and well-being, evoking warmth and positivity.
Prioritizing natural light during the inspection process helps homebuyers envision a space that not only meets their practical needs but also enhances their overall quality of life, fostering inspiration and possibility for the future.
John Gluch, Owner, Gluch Group
Beware of Poor DIY Workmanship
Look for evidence of poor DIY work, where a previous seller may have cut corners—often these can add up and end up costing you. It is common for some DIYers and property flippers to cut corners when trying to renovate a home quickly and cheaply. If there are immediate issues with repairs that can be seen when first inspecting a house, it is likely that there are less visible problems that haven’t been addressed and will become obvious when you move in.
Luka Ball, Property & Real Estate Editor, Clifton Private Finance
Inspect Sewage Lateral Line
If the house you’re interested in buying was built before the 1980s, have the sewage lateral line inspected. That’s because pipes used to be made of cast iron, which isn’t as strong as the PVC pipes used today. I learned that lesson the hard way after paying $9,000 to replace a broken sewage line. Ultimately, an inspection can save you thousands of dollars and prevent a lot of unpleasant surprises. And if you do uncover problems, you’ll be in a better position to either negotiate a lower price or look for a better property.
Ryan Chaw, Founder and Real Estate Investor, Newbie Real Estate Investing
Test for Indoor Air Pollutants
As a two-decade-old veteran real estate entrepreneur with experience in rehabbing, renting, and real estate notes, I am very much aware of the negative influence of poor air quality on human health and its long-term impact on property. Indoor air can be degraded by molds, radon, asbestos, and even volatile organic compounds (VOCs) outgassed from household products. Therefore, it is important to test the property for such pollutants during an inspection.
For example, mold can present a significant health risk and may also indicate more serious underlying issues, including water damage or poor ventilation. These problems can be costly and significantly change the livability and resale value of the property. At my business, we always order air quality tests during inspections to make sure we are investing in properties that are safe and healthy for the people who will eventually live there.
Danny Johnson, Founder, Danny Buys Houses
Observe Signs of Foundation Damage
As an experienced home flipper, one important thing buyers should look for is signs of foundation damage. Cracks in walls or floors, doors that don’t close properly, and unlevel floors can indicate issues with the foundation that require expensive repairs.
In my 15 years flipping over 200 houses, foundation problems have been the costliest to fix. I once bought a property with hairline cracks throughout, thinking minor cosmetic repairs would suffice. After the sale, I discovered severe foundation damage requiring piers to stabilize the structure. The $20,000 repair bill could have been avoided with a careful foundation inspection.
Check the basement and attic for signs like cracks wider than 1/4 inch, walls or floors that slope or bulge, jammed doors, and gaps between windows/walls and floors. Have an engineer fully assess the foundation to determine if piers, wall anchors, or other reinforcements are needed. Repairing foundation damage protects your investment and ensures the home’s structural integrity for years to come. Though an upfront cost, a foundation assessment is worth the peace of mind.
Daniel Cabrera, Owner & Founder, Sell My House Fast SA TX
Examine Roof and Structural Warranties
One important thing a homebuyer should look for during a home inspection is the condition of the roof and other critical structural components. Given my background in roofing and general construction, I can attest that these elements are not only expensive to repair or replace but also crucial for the overall integrity of the home. A thorough inspection should check for signs of wear, damage, or poor installation, which could lead to significant issues down the line.
Additionally, homebuyers should pay attention to whether these critical components come with warranties. A roof or major system with a valid warranty can provide peace of mind and financial protection against future repairs. Warranties indicate that the previous owner or builder was confident in the quality of their work, which can be a good sign of the home’s overall condition.
Also, consider the age and expected lifespan of these key components. Even if everything appears in good condition, knowing how long before major systems might need replacement can help you plan financially. By focusing on these aspects during a home inspection, you can avoid unexpected expenses and ensure that your investment is sound.
Tyler Poole, Roofing Expert, White Oaks Construction
Check HVAC System Functionality
I recommend home buyers check the HVAC system during a house inspection. Checking it after buying the house can be a mistake, causing nuisances and unnecessary expenses. Many home inspectors have proper knowledge of the HVAC system and can give an overview. However, it’s best to consult a certified HVAC inspector.
If you overlook the HVAC inspection, you won’t detect any issues in the air ducts. Later, it will lead to poor indoor air quality and health issues. Likewise, you won’t be able to gauge the efficiency of safety switches and other electrical components. It will be dangerous to handle such parts. A robust HVAC inspection will ensure comfortable and safe living in the house.
David Light, Chief Development Officer, Landbrokermls
Identify Deferred Maintenance Issues
Always check for deferred maintenance, which is when certain systems, electronics, or parts of the house itself need to be repaired or replaced, but the current owner hasn’t done it yet. The owner is “deferring” or putting off doing the maintenance work, and even though things might be working fine, they are due for repair or replacement soon. It’s essential to evaluate these because they can lead to significant costs down the road, even if everything seems fine at the moment.
Take the roof, for example. A roof that looks weathered might only have a few years left before it needs replacing, which can be very expensive. Similarly, an old HVAC system or water heater could fail sooner rather than later, leading to unexpected and potentially hefty bills. You have to pinpoint and carefully check for these issues during the inspection, to get a clearer picture of what the home will truly cost you in the near future. This knowledge allows you to negotiate the home’s price more effectively or plan your budget to cover upcoming repairs, helping you avoid financial surprises after you move in.
Mike Roberts, Co-Founder, City Creek Mortgage
Ensure Electrical System Safety
Working in the electrical field for over 20 years, I believe an important thing a homebuyer should look for during a home inspection is the condition and safety of the electrical system. Ensuring that a thorough electrical safety inspection has been conducted is extremely important. One important item to check is the presence of aluminum wiring, which was commonly used in homes built in the 1960s and 1970s. Aluminum wiring can be a significant fire hazard because it tends to oxidize and deteriorate at connection points, leading to potential overheating and fire risks.
If aluminum wiring is found, I would consider replacing it with copper wiring to improve safety and reliability. The electrical panel should also be inspected for signs of wear, corrosion, or outdated components, as a faulty panel can lead to electrical failures or fire risks. It is also important to verify the presence of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor outlets, as they protect against electrical shocks by shutting off power in the event of a ground fault. Addressing these aspects during a home inspection can help ensure the home’s electrical system is safe and up to date, providing peace of mind for the homebuyer.
Tim Hodnicki, President, Electrical Experts
