The inspection of a property is, by far, one of the most important parts of the process of buying a home for any potential buyer. Although home inspections are optional, it is suggested that all buyers spend these additional funds to conduct a home inspection. The average cost of inspecting a home is between $300 and $500, depending on the area, but can save the owner thousands of dollars in the long term. A home inspector such as ABEL Building Inspections Perth can see and identify problems that can be overlooked by anyone else, which alleviates unplanned home repairs and additional costs. Adding a home inspection to any purchase offer ensures that any problems that may arise are known in advance. This can affect not only the price of the offer but also the continuity of the contract.

What does a home inspection cover?

The typical home inspection includes structure rules, inspections of roofs and attics, basement inspections, HVAC inspections, plumbing, appliances, and garage space inspection. Inspectors are considered outsourced observers and their function is to provide objective information about any home for which they are asked to conduct an inspection. It is suggested that the buyer be present during this inspection to be able to ask the housing inspector questions about any problem or discrepancy that the inspector or the buyer observes.

The realisation and reception of inspections can take between 7 and 14 days depending on the demand in the area. The inspection report will include the following:

• If the problem is a security problem, a minor repair or a major defect
• What items need to be replaced and what needs repairs or maintenance
• Which elements are suitable for their use, but should be controlled by the buyer.

Once the buyer receives the home inspection report, the buyer can make a counteroffer to the seller with the repairs and improvements required to continue with the current offer. If the seller is not willing to make these changes, the buyer may opt for a price reduction or decide to abandon the contract.

Additional inspections

If there are additional concerns regarding a home or special circumstances, the buyer may request the following inspections in addition to the home inspection:

• Lead paint: If the house was built before 1978, this is extremely important for the health of the family.
• Termite and pest control: Termites and pests can quickly tear down the structure of any home. It is important that buyers request this inspection and keep in mind that insurance for homeowners does not normally cover termites. VA loans require a termite inspection in most states. The average cost of a termite inspection is about $100.
• Foundation Inspection: With an average cost of $300 to $400, this inspection is performed by a structural engineer. In general, this is only necessary if a home inspector finds a problem in his inspection.
• Study of the size of the land: The average cost is between $300 and $700 and verifies the size of the land and if there is access easement to the property of others.
• Chimney inspection: This is absolutely essential in any home that has a chimney. A chimney requires an internal inspection to detect cracks and unforeseen problems. If this is not done, there is a risk of major hazards within the home. The average cost is $100 to $250.
• Water inspection: If the home is connected to a well system, it is suggested that the home receive a water inspection. Tests should be conducted to determine if the water contains chemicals such as lead, cadmium and arsenic. The average cost of water testing is $150.
• Radon test: This should be necessary if the home inspector considers that radon is present. It is an affordable test with a cost of $15 to $25.

Additional tips

• Seller inspection:  Some sellers can provide a home inspection carried out by their own company. As a buyer, it is always best to bring an independent provider for this service in case there has been any undue, intentional or inadvertent persuasion.
• The problems will exist: Even newly built houses present minor problems in the inspection of housing. The function of the housing inspectors is to check every corner of the house in search of possible problems. That is why it is essential that a buyer is present during the inspection of the home to determine what is really a problem for the buyer and what is trivial.
• Do not depend on the seller:  Smart sellers will not agree to fix everything, but the seller should take care of reasonable arrangements. Important problems must be negotiated through the sale price.