Home inspections give buyers confidence that a property doesn’t have hidden issues that could impact its value. During the review, your home inspector will carefully examine every part of the house, from the foundation to the roof. Below are a few key questions to ask an inspector to ensure you understand the condition of the property.

What to Ask Your Home Inspector

What doesn’t the inspection cover?

Home inspections are limited to areas that are visually accessible, so inspectors won’t cut holes in the wall to check the electrical system. They also won’t move boxes and other belongings around in the basement to look for cracks or other foundation problems. When looking over your report, ask which areas they couldn’t access.

Is the roof in good condition?

The roof is the largest and likely the most expensive part of any home. Even moderate roof damage can cost thousands of dollars to repair, so buyers should always take its condition into account when making an offer. 

When receiving your evaluation, ask the home inspector specifically about the condition of the roof. Most will physically climb onto the roof to check for missing shingles, loose gutters, and other signs of damage.

Can I accompany you on the inspection?

Any reputable home inspector should be glad to have you come along during the inspection. If you’re there, they can point out potential problems and explain issues that may be more difficult to explain in a report. For instance, they can point out how crumbling concrete likely indicates a water leak in the basement, or loose ducting that could impact the performance of the HVAC system.

How old is the HVAC system?

The heating and AC system is another expensive component that should be checked out carefully. Your inspector will determine the age of the equipment and look for worn-out parts and excessive debris inside the system, which may indicate poor maintenance.

While an aging AC system or furnace doesn’t necessarily mean you should pass on a house, the cost of a replacement may impact the offer you’re willing to make. If the system appears to be older than 15, you’ll likely need to replace it in the next few years.

If you’re buying or selling a home anywhere in Akron, Cleveland, or northeast Ohio, count on Point Man Home Inspection to provide the detailed analysis you need. Their home inspectors are certified by a wide range of industry groups and conduct 400-point inspections of every property they work with. Visit their website for more on their inspection services or call (330) 808-3033 to request a quote today.