Get a free comparative market analysis of your home's value sent to you with no obligations.Why You Need a Home Inspection
Buying a home is one of the most important purchases you will make in your lifetime, so you should be sure that the home you want to buy is in good condition. A home inspection is an evaluation of a home’s condition by a trained expert. During a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth and impartial look at the property you plan to buy. The inspector will:
- Evaluate the physical condition: the structure, construction and mechanical systems.
- Identify items that should be repaired or replaced.
- Estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems (such as electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning), equipment, structure and finishes.
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The home inspector does not estimate the value of the house. |
After the inspection is complete, you will receive a written report of the findings from the home inspector, usually within five to seven days.
The Bottom Line: Spending Hundreds May Save Thousands
When you make a written offer on a home, you should insist that the contract state that the offer is contingent on a home inspection conducted by a qualified inspector. You will have to pay for the inspection yourself, but it could keep you from buying a house that will cost you far more in repairs down the road. If you are satisfied with the results of the inspection, then your offer can proceed.
Finding a Qualified Home Inspector
As the homebuyer, it is your responsibility to carefully select a qualified inspector and pay for the inspection.
The following sources may help you find a qualified home inspector:
- State regulatory authorities. Some states require licensing of home inspectors.
- Professional organizations. Professional organizations may require home inspectors to pass tests and meet minimum qualifications before becoming a member.
- Phone book yellow pages. Look under “Building Inspection Service” or “Home Inspection Service.”
- The Internet. Search for “Building Inspection Service” or “Home Inspection Service.”
- Your real estate agent. Most real estate professionals have a list of home inspectors they recommend.
Radon Gas Testing
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Surgeon General of the United States have recommended that all houses should be tested for radon. For more information on radon testing, call the National Radon Information Line at 1-800-SOS-Radon or 1-800-767-7236. As with a home inspection, if you decide to test for radon, you may do so before signing your contract, or you may do so after signing the contract as long as your contract states the sale of the home depends on your satisfaction with the results of the radon test.
Information Resources
HUD has resources available for information about homebuying and homeownership. You may find the following services helpful.
Internet
www.hud.gov or espanol.hud.gov
HUD’s website contains comprehensive information about home inspections, homebuying, homeownership, selling a home, making home improvements, and other housing-related topics— in English and Spanish.
National Lead Information Clearinghouse
Many homes built before 1978 have lead paint, and some of these have lead hazards. To protect your family, it is recommended that you get a lead-based inspection and/or risk assessment. For more information, contact the National Lead Information Clearinghouse at 1-800-424-LEAD.
HUD-Approved Housing Counseling
HUD supports a network of approved housing counseling agencies that provide counseling services across the nation. For a complete list of HUD-approved agencies in your area, call the toll-free HUD housing counseling referral line 1-800-569-4287 or visit the HUD website at www.hud.gov.
