You’re probably excited after having signed a contract to buy a home. This is especially true if it’s your first one. That being said, you want to ensure you take care to do everything needed to safeguard this new investment for you and your family—our staff at S.P.T. Home Services realize that hiring a quality inspector to do a professional home inspection of the residence is definitely essential.
Finding a Quality Inspector
If there are any substantial flaws in your new home, you want to make sure they’re found before you close the deal. A home is the biggest investment most people will make in their life, so this is not the time to be stingy.
You want a home inspector who is insured and licensed, but even this is a minimal requirement. You also want one who is trained by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). An inspector has a background in contractor work, real estate, or the building industry is a bonus.
Scheduling and Preparing for the Inspection
You should definitely schedule the inspection when you are free because you will want to accompany the inspector around the property as they’re inspecting it. Depending on the inspector’s thoroughness and the size of the home, the inspection will take about two to three hours. Be sure to have a list of any questions you may have about specific items of interest on hand with you. Have a notebook and pen handy to note down anything they say that seems important. This is particularly true about the age and condition of the home’s major parts and mechanics, such as the furnace or roof, because your insurance company will want information about such things. A recently replaced component may save you on premiums.
Other Steps to Take During the Inspection
This may be the last time you’ll have access to the property until closing, so take pictures of any items that catch your eye. You may even want to take video as you go along with the inspector. This may show you things you’ll want to fix or change when moving in, which will help you be prepared.
Also, if you notice a table or rug that’s a perfect fit for the dimensions of a given room, take measurements of it now. This will give you an idea of what to buy to fill these spaces yourself, so you can start filling out that home furnishing shopping list.
What Happens After the Inspection?
Soon after completing your inspection, usually a matter of days, you’ll be receiving what should be a thorough report on the condition of the home. The report should breakdown any issues from the most serious items, such as things that may affect the structure or safety of the home, down to minor cosmetic items, and anything in between.
When You Need an Inspection in Pennsylvania
At S.P.T. Home Services LLC., our certified, licensed, and insured inspectors inspect homes in Bucks County, Berks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Chester County, and Philadelphia. Our owner is also our lead inspector, and he has over two decades of experience in the home inspection and building trades. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, we work hard to give you a detailed analysis of the major systems and structure of that home, so you’ll either have a heads up about any issues before putting it on the market, or you’ll know if you are making a sound purchase and investment.
