When you’re buying a new home, there are many important things that you’ve got to consider as it’s the biggest purchase most of us make during our lives. In addition to getting an agreement in principle for your mortgage, you’ve got to arrange the removals truck, get everything packed and make sure you’re on top of your conveyancing solicitor and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

With all this on your plate, you might be forgiven for forgetting the home inspection part of the process, but it’s something you leave out at your peril. In this blog, we look at home inspections, what they’re for and exactly what they’re designed to protect you against. So, without any further hyperbole, let’s dive straight in!

What is a Home Inspection?

Essentially, a home inspection is carried out by a fully qualified home inspector who conducts a thorough examination of the property and tests all of the building’s structural and mechanical parts. Not to be confused with a house survey that deals with property lines, a home inspection is something that’s required by the title insurer.

During the inspection, if anything is discovered that may change the value of the property, it is then fed back to the buyer.

With the cost of a home inspection varying depending on the property’s location, its age and its total square-footage, it involves a certified professional checking both the interior and the exterior of the property. The home inspection is carried out objectively and its main purpose is to ensure that your hard-earned dollars aren’t wasted on a home with unforeseen problems.

What does Home Inspection Involve?

When a certified home inspector comes to your property, you can expect an in-depth analysis of every part of your home. This includes all major components like the electrical, mechanical and structural aspects of the property. It also includes air conditioning systems, heating, insulation, plumbing and much more.

Your home inspector will provide details of any necessary improvements along with an estimated cost.

The information provided by the home inspector is so important, as it gives you an insight into the overall condition of the house. It should leave you in no doubt as to whether your investment is a sound one.

How Is the Home Inspection Information Presented?

Typically speaking, you will get the home inspection information given to you in the form of a report, which can be either electronic or on paper. Also, including any information about past renovations, your home inspection report will be easy to read document that will detail everything you need to know about the house you’re buying.

It’s recommended that you attend the home inspection along with your estate agent so that you can ask any relevant questions you might have. Believe it or not, people tend to spend more time buying a car than buying a home, even though there’s much more stake! Being there while the inspection is actually happening gives you a mental picture to complement your report.

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

Again depending on the age and size of the property, the home inspection should take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours to complete. While this might sound like a long time out of your day, it can save a lot of time and money in the long run, so it’s certainly worth the effort!

You should also consider having a home inspection carried out if you’re buying a new property, as anyone who’s ever bought a new home will tell you – they’re often not in perfect condition, despite being brand new! This will allow you to bring up any problems while your home is still in the warranty period.