Is a home inspection important when buying a home

It’s a question we get all the time: “Do I really need a home inspection?”. The answer to that question changes depending on a variety of qualifying questions and strategies. But generally the answer to that is: Yes. We’ll take you through why based on our own personal experience with buyers over the years.

What is a home inspector?

Home inspectors are trained individuals who have completed specific training and certification. As a result, this allows them to give home inspection advice to potential clients. They are not affiliated with Realtors or home owners and provide a 3^rd party, unbiased opinion on the condition of a home. 

Does an inspection reduce insurance?

Not always. It’s similar to getting driving training if you’re looking for auto insurance. Some insurance companies will be curious of the results of your home inspection to determine your insurance rates.

Further, some insurance companies will not insure a home if certain “less desirable elements” are found such as vermiculite, knob and tube wiring. Or, without the presence of certifications like WETT inspections. Qualified home inspectors can identify these things at the same time as their other services. This saves the home buyer time and money in the long run.”

For home inspections of well and septic (rural properties), most general home inspectors won’t specialize in these areas. Instead, you’ll need to find inspectors that have certifications in these areas.

What happens if I don’t do an inspection?

If a buyer chooses to purchase a home without inspection, they are buying a home that doesn’t have a 3rd party inspection. This could mean nothing, or it could mean that major issues are not found. Not having a home inspection creates extra liability for the buyer- not the seller.