Disputes over property condition and repairs can kill a deal in a hurry. Take the time to schedule inspections and nail down the condition of the property as early as possible to allow adequate time for resolving any issues that arise.
12 Questions Buyers Should Ask the Home Inspector
1. Are you a member in good standing of a professional inspectors organization, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors?
2. Are you licensed? (Required only in some states)
3. What systems'plumbing, heating, electrical'will the inspection include?
4. How long will the inspection take?
5. How much will the inspection cost?
6. Can we accompany you on the inspection?
7. Do you have references?
8. Do you carry errors and omissions insurance?
9. What is your specialty and what sort of continuing education have you completed? Note: If the inspector is a plumber by training and has no expertise in home construction, the inspection might not be comprehensive.
TIP: If your customers have particular concerns about one area of the home'the foundation, for instance'suggest that they hire a second inspector who specializes in that component.
10. Do you provide a written report at no extra charge?
11. Does the report include estimates of repair costs?
12. Does your company also do repairs when you find problems? If the answer is yes, it may indicate a conflict of interest.
For the Broker
Include statements in the contract that the sellers' agent is not responsible for errors contained in the reports of third parties, such as credit reports, appraisals, and inspections.
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SAMPLE INSPECTION LIST |
| Item |
Checked |
Needs Attention |
Comments |
| Exterior grading |
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| Tree safety |
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| Fences |
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| Patio |
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| Driveway, walkways |
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| Doors |
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| Windows, storm windows, screens |
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| Roof, flashing, gutters, downspouts |
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| Foundation, basement, crawl space |
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| Walls--exterior and interior |
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| Structural integrity of bridging and joists |
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| Sump pump |
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| Sewer, septic tanks, wells, if applicable |
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| Attic insulation and ventilation |
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| Flooring |
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| Fireplace damper, flues |
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| HVAC system |
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| Water heater |
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| Electricity |
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| Plumbing fixtures, water pressure |
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| Toilets, showers |
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| Stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher |
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| Washer, dryer |
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| Garbage disposal |
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| Garage door, electric opener |
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| Alarms, smoke detectors |
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Other inspections |
| Termite |
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| Radon |
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| Asbestos |
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| Mold |
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| Lead-testing for paint and water |
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| Earthquake/ geological |
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| Underground storage tanks, if applicable |
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TIP: If the sellers decide to offer a lower price rather than make repairs, be sure to obtain at least two written estimates for the work involved to ensure that the price is dropped in a way to reflect real expenses.
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