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Butterfly and Flowers. July 2004. Don Sibrel. sibrel@comcast.net  Click photo for complete album.

An inspector checks the safety of your potential new home. Home Inspectors focus especially on the structure, construction, and mechanical systems of the house and will make you aware of repairs that are needed.

The Inspector does not evaluate whether or not you're getting good value for your money. Generally, an inspector checks the electrical system, plumbing and waste disposal, the water heater, insulation and ventilation, the HVAC system, water source and quality, the potential presence of pests, the foundation, doors, windows, ceilings, walls, floors, and roof. Be sure to hire a home inspector that is qualified and experienced.

It is a good idea to have an "Inspection Contingency" clause in the offer when negotiating for a home. An inspection clause gives you an "out" in buying the house if serious problems are found, or gives you the ability to renegotiate the purchase price if repairs are needed. An inspection clause can also specify that the seller must fix the problem(s) before you purchase the house.

View the Pillar to Post Home Inspection website.

Buyers are not required to be there for the inspection, but it's a good idea. Following the inspection, the home inspector will be able to answer questions about the report and any problem areas. The buyer can also ask general maintenance questions. 

If the home inspector discovers a serious problem, a more specific Inspection may be recommended. It's a good idea to consider having the home inspected for the presence of a variety of health-related risks like radon gas, asbestos, or possible problems with the water or waste disposal system.

If the house was built before 1978 and you have children under the age of seven, you will want to have an inspection for lead-based paint. It's important to know that lead flakes from paint can be present in both the home and in the soil surrounding the house. The problem can be fixed temporarily by repairing damaged paint surfaces or planting grass over affected soil. Hiring a lead abatement contractor to remove paint chips and seal damaged areas will fix the problem permanently.

There are no definitive research findings that indicate exposure to power lines results in greater instances of disease or illness.

Home warranties offer you protection for a specific period of time (e.g., one year) against potentially costly problems, like unexpected repairs on appliances or home systems, which are not covered by homeowner's insurance. Warranties are becoming more popular because they offer protection during the time immediately following the purchase of a home, a time when many people find themselves cash-strapped. Old Republic Home Warranty Plan can be seen at this website.

Email Jenny to refer you to sources for insurance, inspections, legal counsel and financing.