Home Inspection

The Home Inspector is a licensed professional who is hired and compensated by the buyer. Typically, the home inspection lasts about 3-4 hours. In addition to main systems, the home inspection may also encompass inspections for pests, water quality (private water), radon and lead paint. Sellers and sellers’ agents are not typically present for the inspection.

SELLER’S INSPECTION CHECKLIST

• Ensure adequate access to the attic, heating system, basement walls and electric panel

• Make sure all rooms and outbuildings are unlocked / accessible

• Tidy under kitchen and bathroom sinks and make sure the space is accessible

• FYI - Most inspectors will run the dishwasher through a rinse cycle

• Vacate 30 minutes prior to inspection start time (typically home inspectors will arrive early)

ADDRESSING UNEXPECTED FINDINGS

If there are unexpected findings, you and/or the buyer may choose to conduct further investigation by hiring a subject matter expert. Depending on the nature and severity of the finding, buyers may elect to reopen negotiations following the home inspection.

In response to an unexpected finding, a buyer may request that certain items be addressed prior to closing. Alternatively a buyer may request a reduction in sale price or a credit at closing. If a buyer terminates as a result of home inspection, any known, significant, material defects must be disclosed to prospective buyers in the future.

RADON

Indoor radon levels in excess of 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) are associated with risk of lung cancer. Fortunately, radon is fairly simple to mitigate via a radon reduction system. Learn more about radon here.