Chris Gmyr

Before buying a home, it is usually required that all home pass inspection. Every home inspection can be different depending on that state or even the city in which you live or are purchasing the home from, but homes do require an inspection before the purchase can be finalized. If you are a home buyer, you probably appreciate this inspection because it most likely means that the home is safe to move into, but you may not understand all the items on a home inspection list or what they mean. Here are some general tips for figuring out what the home inspections mean, so that you can feel safer and more prepared in your new home.

Check with your real estate agent about home inspection rules for your home
It is a good idea to first check with your real estate agent about the home inspection rules or regulations for the city that you are buying your home in. It is their job to know about these rules and to make sure everything is up to standards before home inspections are done. So, be sure to ask your agent first about any questions you may have.

Structures of the house will be looked over
The construction of the walls, floor, roof, and ceilings will be inspected to make sure there are no major problems such as leaks or cracks.

Outside of the house will be evaluated
The outside of the house is evaluated including but not limited to: wall coverings, landscaping, grading, elevation, drainage, driveways, fences, doors, windows, and lights. This is to make sure everything works the way it should.

Plumbing
The sinks, showers, and drains will be inspected as well as pipes, but this usually does not include a sewage inspection.

Systems and other components
Items such as the heater, air conditioning, air ducts, fireplaces, and sprinklers will be inspected to make sure they are working properly.

Electrical
Things such as the wiring, main panel, circuit breakers, exhaust fans, lights, and ceiling fixtures will be inspected for any problems.

Appliances
Items such as dishwasher, microwave, garbage disposal, firewall, garage door, and smoke detectors are inspected.

Items not included in home inspection might include:

• Asbestos
• Methane and radiation
• Termites
• Mold, mildew or fungus
• Rodents
• Lead

You may want to have these items inspected by other professionals or ask your real estate agent for advice.

These are the basic items that general home inspections cover and what to expect. These regulations though may vary from state to state or even city by city, so it is important to ask your agent for any information or advice. This way you can be sure that the home you are buying is completely safe for you and your loved ones.