{"id":8099,"date":"2021-10-26T03:02:58","date_gmt":"2021-10-26T08:02:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/propertyinspect.com\/?p=8099"},"modified":"2024-09-05T14:31:38","modified_gmt":"2024-09-05T14:31:38","slug":"how-to-read-a-home-inspection-report","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pi-darwin.radweb.biz\/uk\/blog\/how-to-read-a-home-inspection-report\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Read A Home Inspection Report"},"content":{"rendered":"

Romo, Lorena<\/em><\/strong> “Lost in Translation: How to Read Your Home Inspection Report”, Inspection Support Network, Thu, Jun 17, 2021, original source here<\/a><\/em>

If you\u2019re getting ready to buy a home, there are tons of things to include on your list of to-dos. One of the most important steps in home buying is the inspection. Home inspections are designed to help you make wise decisions about a property you\u2019re interested in based on its condition and other factors. Whether you\u2019ve had a home inspection before or you\u2019re new to the process, sometimes reading the home inspection report can be a bit confusing. This guide explores the details of your report so you\u2019ll be able to decide whether or not the property you\u2019re interested in is right for you.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Why do I need a Home Inspection?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

There are many situations where you\u2019d need a home inspection to help close a sale.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

You\u2019re selling a house.\u00a0<\/strong>If you\u2019re\u00a0planning to sell<\/a>, getting a streamline home inspection<\/a> early can help you detect potential problems so you can make repairs now. The inspection will help you determine if the home has any issues that might deter buyers from making an offer or that could present problems later on.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

You\u2019re buying a house.\u00a0<\/strong>Buyers should always get a home inspection since it can alert you to any underlying problems with the property that you can\u2019t see with the naked eye. A home inspection report can also be used to negotiate the price with the seller later if you need to do so.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

You want to know the value.\u00a0<\/strong>While a home inspector can\u2019t tell you the value of a home, they can give you some insight into its condition. Homes with minimal problems tend to be worth more, while homes in distress or properties that need a lot of attention can translate into a lower value or asking price.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

What is included \u2014 and not included \u2014 in a home inspection report?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Once the home inspector is finished, you\u2019ll receive a report for review. Here are some things that are included in a home inspection report, as well as a few things that aren\u2019t typically covered in a standard home inspection:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Roof.\u00a0<\/strong>The report will tell you the condition of the roof, including gutters, downspouts, flashings, skylights, chimneys, and the roofing material itself.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Ventilation & insulation.\u00a0<\/strong>Your report should include how well the attic, foundation, and crawl spaces are insulated and how well everything is ventilated.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Exterior.\u00a0<\/strong>Your home inspection checklist and report should include information about the condition of the exterior, such as vinyl siding or paint, windows, walkways, driveways, exterior stairs, decks, and exterior doors.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Structure.\u00a0<\/strong>The home inspector should indicate the current condition of the home\u2019s basement, foundation, or crawlspace and should include information about any cracks, signs of water penetration, foundation movement, and other structural concerns.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Cooling & heating.\u00a0<\/strong>Check\u00a0your report<\/a>\u00a0to find out about the condition of the HVAC system, including the condition and location of the thermostat and what type of system is used in the home.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Fireplace.\u00a0<\/strong>If the home has a fireplace, the report will cover the condition of the damper doors, doors and frames, and other visible portions of both the fireplace and chimney.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Plumbing.\u00a0<\/strong>This is one of the most thorough parts of a home inspection and should include information about the home\u2019s water main and shut-off valves, pipes, and plumbing, the water heater, all toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers, as well as all drains and waste systems.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Electrical.\u00a0<\/strong>Read your report carefully to find out about the electrical main, panel, all light fixtures and outlets, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and the home\u2019s wiring system.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Doors & windows.\u00a0<\/strong>The report will also include basic information about all doors, windows, flooring, walls, ceilings, and stairs. The inspector will confirm that all stairs have a proper railing and that all other components are properly sealed and\/or in safe, good condition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

What\u2019s not included.\u00a0<\/strong>Your home inspection report likely won\u2019t include information about the swimming pool, well and septic system, mold, radon, pests, or asbestos. These items are important, but you\u2019ll need to hire a separate inspector for an additional fee if they\u2019re a cause for concern.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

How to Identify Red Flags<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Now that you know what\u2019s included in your report, how can you\u00a0identify areas of concern<\/a>? Some reports are color-coded to make reading and translating each section easier. The color green indicates that everything is fine, blue represents a minor concern, yellow a moderate concern, and red translates to a major concern that needs repair. To protect yourself and your investment, there are other things to look out for when reviewing the report:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n