DON’T Forget the Home Inspection

Always Do Your Own Home Inspection

Even if the seller provides you with an inspection report, you should always get one yourself as well. A seller may have chosen an inspector known for not pointing out many problems. The inspection is too serious to leave it in the hands of someone else.

Professional inspectors should look for defects or malfunctions in the systems of the home, or structural damage such as the roof, plumbing, electrical and heating/cooling systems, and more. In addition, your inspector should examine the land surrounding the house. There could be issues such as grading, drainage, retaining walls, or even plants affecting the house. See that old tree in the backyard? Does it have termites? An inspector can point that out.

Of course, before you go out and pay for a professional inspection, you are able to walk around the property yourself and do your own review.

Here are some things you will want to look for:

• Bowing walls
• Foundation issues
• Signs of water damage
• Missing roof shingles
• Overall signs of wear and tear

PEST REPORT

In addition to the general inspector, you should also consider hiring a licensed pest control inspector, who will create a special pest report on the property. The pest inspector will look for infestation by wood-boring insects such as termites and flying beetles, as well as evidence of dry rot and other fungal conditions. Be sure you get a written report of all inspections.