A question we are often asked by home buyers is “Should I attend my home inspection?” The short answer is, yes! While it certainly isn’t required that you attend, we definitely recommend you make every effort to be there.
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and the home inspection is a crucial step in the process. Attending your home inspection provides valuable insights into the condition of the property and helps you make informed decisions. Here’s why it’s a good idea to be there and what to expect.
Why You Should Attend Your Home Inspection
- See Issues Firsthand – While your inspector will provide a detailed report, seeing any potential issues in person can give you a clearer understanding of their severity and impact.
- Ask Questions in Real Time – Being present allows you to ask the inspector questions about the home’s systems, potential maintenance needs, and recommended repairs.
- Learn About Your Future Home – The inspector can explain how different components of the house function, such as the HVAC system, water heater, and electrical panel. This is especially useful for first-time homebuyers.
- Understand the Report Better – Inspection reports can be detailed and sometimes overwhelming. Seeing issues firsthand and discussing them with the inspector can make it easier to interpret the findings later.
- Negotiate More Effectively – If the inspection reveals significant concerns, attending allows you to gauge their urgency and discuss potential solutions with your real estate agent. This can be helpful in negotiating repairs or price adjustments with the seller.
What to Expect During the Inspection
- Inspector’s Role – The inspector will conduct a thorough evaluation of the home, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, and more.
- Your Role – While you’re encouraged to follow along and ask questions, it’s best to let the inspector do their job without interruptions.
- Time Commitment – A typical home inspection can last 2-4 hours. Our tip: arrive for the last hour of the inspection. This allows your inspector plenty of time to get the home inspection under way, and they can point out areas of concern to you once you arrive. Inspectors will also often point out home maintenance tips along the way.
- Post-Inspection Discussion – At the end of the inspection, many inspectors provide a verbal summary of their findings, highlighting any major concerns, and will follow up by providing you a written report.
The Bottom Line
Attending your home inspection is a great way to gain knowledge about the property you’re purchasing and to ensure you fully understand any potential issues. While not mandatory, being present can provide peace of mind and help you make a more informed decision about your investment. If you’re unsure about the process, your real estate agent can guide you on how to best prepare and what to focus on during the inspection.