Home Inspection

When buying a home, you'll want to be assured that the property is in good condition. Therefore, you may benefit by requesting a home inspection.

If the sales contract provides for it, the property can be inspected and tested by architects, engineers and/or property inspectors.

Typical Items Reviewed During A Home Inspection
Foundation Roof Heating Plumbing Electrical Systems Central Air Conditioning	Chimneys and Fireplaces Porches and Decks Windows and Doors Insulation and Ventilation Gutters and Downspouts Appliances

You may also need to schedule a pest inspection to check for wood-boring insects. This may include:

Pest Inspection
Termites Carpenter Bees	Carpenter Ants Powder Post Beetles, etc.

You will also want to have an environmental inspection to check for:

Environmental Inspection
Toxic Waste and Chemicals Lead Paint Lead in the Water Supply Soil Contamination Septic or Onsite Sewage Radon Gas and Pipelines (Oil, Gas, Chemical).

Should the home inspection reveal a major structural defect, an environmental hazard or infestation, you may be able to remedy the problem by getting the seller to agree, in writing, to remedy major defects at the seller's expense. Such an agreement should describe how the remedy will be accomplished and require that the defects be remedied using materials consistent with materials used in the construction of the property. The agreement should also require that the remedy be completed prior to the date of settlement.

The seller and the buyer may be able to agree on a credit at settlement in an amount required to remedy the problem.

Note: The sales contract and state laws relating to disclosure of defects in residential transactions will govern your rights and remedies.

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The information presented in this publication is general in nature and it is not our intention to provide specific advice to individuals or a comprehensive discussion of the subject matter. We suggest that you consult with your financial or tax advisor, accountant or attorney to obtain specific advice or comprehensive information.