Buying a home is overwhelming but purchasing a home as a first-time homebuyer can be frightening. There are so many questions you should ask and so many things you should be concerned about but it’s hard to remember everything. The inspector you hire is your resourceful confidant that you’ll lean on and trust to ensure you are making a solid investment.
When hiring an inspector, do a thorough background check and assess sample reports, credentials, and references. Determine what your inspection covers—mold, sewer, radon, etc. And be present during the inspection. Yes, it will take a while but it will give you the opportunity to physically see the concerns and ask questions while you’re both present at the property. If an inspector cautions against you being present, move on, and find someone else.
Aside from identifying immediate costs and repairs needed within the first one to two years, here’s a list of all the questions you should ask your inspector.
- How old is the roof and what is the condition?
- Are there any water spots inside? Any leaks?
- What is the condition of the gutters?
- How old is the HVAC system and what is the condition?
- How old is the water heater and what is the condition?
- If kitchen appliances are included, what is the condition of all appliances?
- If there’s a garbage disposal, what’s the condition?
- What is the condition of the insulation in the attic? (Where is the attic entrance?)
- What is the condition of the windows?
- Are all of the screens for the windows and stormed doors intact?
- Any major safety and/or structural issues? (Slopping floors, bulging or bowing foundation, cracks in foundation, improper cut joists, etc.)
- Are there signs of water damage?
- Are there signs of termites or other pests?
- Where is the water shutoff?
- Where does the sewage go? Is there a septic tank? If yes, what’s the condition?
- Where is the tap for internet and cable?
- Where is the electrical panel and is it up to code?
- Do all the light switches and outlets work?
- Do all the ceiling fans work?
- Where are all air registers and air filters located? (What are the sizes?)
- Are there any electrical issues such as outdated wiring, overloaded panels?
- Where are the smoke detectors and CO detectors?
- Is there a sump pump and does it work?
- How many thermostats does the home have and where are they located? Are they energy efficient?
- If there is a fireplace, are there gas logs installed?
- Are there any issues with the siding? Any insulation concerns?
- Any mold concerns?
- If there is a walk-in shower, are there any concerns with the door and/or cracks in the caulk/sealing?
- Any dripping faucets or water spots under any of the sinks?
- Any dripping or water spots near any of the toilets?
- Do all doors open and close without any concerns? No problems with scrapping on the floor or faulty hinges?
- Any issues with sliding doors? Are tracks and weather stripping intact?
- Any loose floor boards or cracked tile?
- Any exposed wiring (or damage) from previously installed outdoor cameras or ring door cameras?
- If there’s carpeted floors, what’s the condition? Any concerns requiring immediate replacement? Hardwood or cement floors under carpeted floors?
- If there are stairs, are all steps intact? No loose boards?
- Any loose or concerning outlets throughout the home?
- Where are the outdoor outlets?
- If there’s a fireplace, what’s the condition? Estimate the approximate last cleaning?
- Is there any pooling water around the house to suggest there’s poor water drainage?
Buying a home is stressful but having your essential questions answered will give you peace and mind that you are making the right decision.