Things to Include in a Home Inspection Checklist
Experts agree that a seller should conduct a home inspection before putting his property on the market to expedite the sale and set a realistic price on the house.
Home buyers, especially those who are planning to purchase a foreclosed home, always perform a new home inspection before closing the deal.
Whether you are the seller or the buyer, it is advisable that you hire a home inspector from reputable home inspection companies.
However, a seller can also perform his own inspection to aid the inspector which he plans to hire later. A home inspection checklist is needed to ensure that no areas or hot spots were left out during your do-it-yourself inspection.
- Look for molds and mildew. Chances are houses with molds and mildew will not interest any buyer. Whatever kind of mold it is, be it the normal variety or not, the source should be eliminated immediately.
- Mildew odors and molds indicate that there is too much moisture in the basement. And moisture attracts insects and hastens the deterioration of building materials.
- To help control the spread of moisture in the basement, cover exposed earth and small spaces with a plastic.
- Check for possible water leaks due to poor drainage system. Clean the gutters so as not to hinder the flow of rainwater towards the downspouts.
- Rotted or moist roof coverings or shingles means that you will need to have them repaired before the first real estate agent or buyer tours the property.
- Ensure that water cannot seep through the flashing around the chimney’s base.
- If you can, fix leaks and other plumbing problems.
- Make sure that the circuit breaker and electrical panel configuration are adequate for the requirement of the house.
Now, despite doing everything to get your home in a good condition, a home inspector still saw some defects and damages and noted them on his home inspection report. Do not be encouraged if this will happen because it only means that you have hired an efficient home inspector.
