The what's, how's and why's of a home inspection

So you’ve found a home you’d like to buy, but before you make your final decision, requesting a home inspection is one of the wisest things you can do.

Firstly, what is a home inspection?

It’s a comprehensive review of the systems, structure, and general ‘health’ of a home, conducted by a qualified, objective inspector.  It’ll help identify if there are any issues that may degrade the value of the house, or if there are any repairs that need to be dealt with.

A basic home inspection includes visual inspections of the:

• Roof


• Foundation/framing


• Fireplaces


• Plumbing systems


• Electrical systems


• HVAC (heating and cooling) systems


• Interiors (doors, paint, floorings, ceilings, walls, windows, etc.)


• Exteriors (siding, windows, doors, etc.)


• Insulation/Ventilation

Additional inspections may be done for:

• Septic systems


• The presence of radon, asbestos, lead, mould, or pests


• Dangers from flood, earthquake, landslide, or other natural disasters

How do I organise and select an inspector?

Be aware that inspections aren’t ‘automatically’ part of every home purchase. As a buyer, you’ll need to include a home inspection clause in your purchase agreement. Doing this will allow you to back out of the contract if the inspector discovers unexpected issues with the house.

If you’re still wanting the house even after any problems are found, an inspection clause allows you to renegotiate with the seller. You can either request a price adjustment, or ask the seller to make necessary repairs prior to completing the sale.

When looking for an inspector, you can ask your agent to recommend any good, and qualified inspectors they usually hire.

Or, you can find one on your own.

Either way, always consider the inspectors qualifications, and experience in the business.

Why request a home inspection?

Getting a home inspection done will ensure you are aware of any costs, maintenance, or repairs the property may require which can either give you negotiation rights, or give you reason to abandon your offer.

It’ll give you a sense of security and a chance to forecast future costs for the house.

Home inspection clauses aren’t automatic, but they’re highly recommended by agents, and are almost always added to standard real estate contracts.

So the next time you’re making an offer on a new house - be wise, and organise for a home inspection.

However, the beauty of building a new home is that you won’t need the extra expense of hiring an inspector.  The house will be up to the required standards right from the get-go.

If you’re looking to forego a home inspection altogether, check out our newly built house & land packages.