Buying a home is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make, and a comprehensive home inspection is essential in the decision-making process. A trained residential building inspector can help detect structural issues, safety hazards, and pricy repairs, but what questions should you ask to ensure you get all the information?
Here are the top five questions you should ask your residential building inspector:
- How is the overall condition of the house? Begin with the larger picture. Request an overview of the property’s condition, including the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
- Are there any safety issues? Safety should be your main priority. Inquire about potential hazards such as defective wiring and carbon monoxide exposure. These conditions could pose immediate health risks and require prompt action.
- What are the most important fixes required? A residential building inspector may uncover several concerns, but not all of them will require urgent repairs. It’s important to ask about the things that need to be fixed right away so that you can weigh your options.
- Are there any signs of water damage or drainage issues? Water damage can result in expensive repairs, such as mold cleanup or foundation work. Be sure to ask the residential building inspector if they discovered any leaks, poor drainage, or evidence of previous flooding.
- Are there any signs of bugs or termites? Infestations can significantly damage a home’s structural stability. A competent inspector will recognize signs of these pests even if they are not immediately obvious and be able to provide you with recommendations moving forward.