A typical home inspection costs between $300 and $500.
For you, this fee is only worth it if you make the most out of the inspection. An inspection report will come handy when making price negotiations or purchase decisions.
However, once the report comes in, a buyer might be overwhelmed by information. The final report is just as important as knowing the right questions to ask.
Here is what to ask after the inspection.
1. Would You Explain This to Me?
Unless you have gone through several inspections, chances are that you might not be able to fully understand the report.
Do not feel hesitant to ask any questions that might not have been answered fully. There is nothing wrong with seeking clarity.
When the final report comes out, things might be explained differently than how they were explained to you during the inspection.
Note down anything that sticks out and anything you want more information on, then call the inspector with specific questions in mind.
2. Do I Bring in an Expert for This?
A home inspector is a generalist, not a specialist.
While they are able to spot general problems, they might not be trained in all areas of home repair.
One of the things you need to know is the extent of the problems and how much repair will cost. You might need experts to give you this information.
Identify such issues from your report and those that are inadequately explained, and inquire if you need to bring in an expert.
3. Is This Normal?
If you get an excellent inspector, they will go out of their way to separate the things you should be concerned about from the common issues.
For most people looking to buy their first house and have never been through an inspection, everything the inspector says can sound terrifying.
This is one of the reasons why you should have your realtor present during the inspection. They have been to numerous inspections and are therefore able to break down this information in layman’s terms.
By asking how common the problem is, you might find that some of the most worrying things you are hearing about are indeed quite common.
While common does not mean they should not be fixed, it means you do not necessarily have to give up the house.
4. What Should I Repair First?
Houses are rarely 100% perfect — not even new ones.
When you do get your list of repairs, ask to have them prioritized. Some things on the list can wait, while others like leaking pipes are urgent. And not just that; waiting longer could leave you with more damage to sort out.
Focus on the major and urgent ones on your request to the seller to either fix or compensate you on the final buying price.
This way, you can move in assured that you will not have major issues soon afterward.
5. What Else Could Go Wrong?
Once you have a list of repairs, it’s also important to ask if there could be other issues that might be discovered during the repair.
Also, ask if there are repairs that will be required in the near future. There are things that might be on a degradation spree that do not require intervention now but will in a year or so.
It’s important to have this information before the purchase.
6. How Much Will It Cost?
Every home inspection reveals a handful of repairs that could be necessary-even on new houses. Your inspector is able to give you a rough estimate of how much the repairs will cost.
If the seller is willing to absorb the costs, these repairs do not have to be a deal breaker if you love the house.
For things to be repaired down the line, the costs allow you to plan and get the real value of the home.
7. Are There Any Water, Fire and Safety Hazards?
Give less attention to cosmetic repairs and focus on the big 3: water, fire, and safety.
Ask your inspector to give you a detailed rundown of these three issues.
Typically, inspectors will look for gas leak repairs, water damage signs (such as mold and mildew), outdated GFCI or out of code electrical wiring.
These are items that have to be fixed before you take any more steps towards purchasing the house. Without this, you’re putting your family in harm’s way.
If you’re buying your home via a financier, such damage might cause your loan application to be rejected.
8. What Repairs Are Worth Asking For?
Not all repairs require you to haggle with the seller.
Of course, roof damage and water, fire and safety hazards must be fixed. However, go easy on minor wear and tear that are largely cosmetic and that won’t cost much to repair.
9. What Is a Deal breaker for Me?
While normal wear and tear, as well as occasional damage, is expected, there are some problems that you shouldn’t take on. If the repair warrants a lot of work or the problem cannot be fully solved, do not get yourself involved.
You might also decide on things you are willing to compromise on and those that will be on your “no” list. Go through the inspection report and make your decision based on your convictions.
10. One Last Thing on the” What to Ask “List: Are the Repairs Satisfactory?
Once you have identified all repairs to be carried out and the seller has handled them, do a final walk through.
This step is to help you ascertain that the things identified for repair have been handled satisfactorily.
The contractor can also tell you if there were additional problems to those you earmarked and if these have been handled as well.
Ultimately
The entire inspection process is meant to help you make a sound financial investment and ensure your family’s safety. It’s imperative to know what to ask the inspector after the inspection.
At Class Home Inspection, we appreciate the trust our clients place in us when they request us for an inspection. We do a thorough job and remain accessible for any question you might have for us.
Do you need a friendly partner to take you through an inspection? Contact us today to schedule an inspection.