Waiting for the results of a buyer-commissioned home inspection can be a tense moment when selling your home; if the building doesn’t get a good review, the deal could go south.
But you can avoid this anxiety by ordering your own inspection before putting your home on the market. You’ll find out if you’ve got any problems and have plenty of time to fix them.
It’s essential you prioritize any issues with the structure of the building before spending money on the aesthetics.
Pretending a building inspection won’t show existing flaws in your home is naïve. And structural issues often result in potential buyers rejecting the property outright or negotiating for the deepest discounts.
These are the areas of your home that will get the most attention from a building inspector, and why:
Comprehensive view
There are around 1,600 points of inspection. It must satisfy both the buyer and the lending institution intending to finance the purchase.
Primary structure
Foundations are a target area. An inspector will look for warped walls, cracks in brickwork and frames of windows and doors that are not square because of building movement.
Leaks and drips
Another core element of an inspection is the roof, where shingles, flashing, chimney and guttering come under the microscope. Water stains on the ceiling are a tell-tale sign of trouble.
Live wires
Your wiring and electrical panel must pass muster. The checklist also includes any HVAC system, air conditioning units, ceiling fans, light switches and power outlets in the wall.
Plumb job
Checks relating to water continue with the inspection of pipes, drains and water heaters. An assessment will be made of the water pressure and temperature range.
Cooking capers
The range hood and its extraction outlet will be tested. An inspector will note any power outlets that are close to the sink, along with leaks under the sink. Cabinet doors and drawers should open smoothly and show no sign of swelling due to water damage.
Bathrooms
Inspectors will ensure you have working toilets, a shower and tub. The bathroom wares will be tested for secure installation, drips and leaks.
Outdoors
Evaluations include those for paths and water drainage away from the property. The condition of any shed and outdoor entertaining area will be assessed. The state of the patio, wooden decking, railings and retaining walls will be recorded.