By Rachel Oslund, Maryland Inspector
Want to understand more about home inspections and what they really mean for you and your new home? Here are the top six things to know:
There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect House.
Don’t let a detailed home inspection report scare you! Every home, no matter how new and shiny it looks, is going to have its quirks – or what your inspector might call “defects” or “observations.” It’s the job of your inspector to uncover those imperfections and provide you with a bit of perspective so that you can make informed decisions.
A Home Inspection Isn’t a Code Inspection.
Home Inspectors are not here to identify or enforce building codes or local regulations. Rather, they will evaluate the home’s current condition and point out any potential issues. An inspector will look for conditions related to health and safety and components that are not working the way they were intended to work.
There are Only Two Types of Houses.
Repeat after me: “There are only two types of houses – ones that have problems and ones that are going to have problems.” It’s a home truth (pun intended) that every property, from the cozy bungalow to the sprawling mansion, has its own set of issues waiting to emerge. Don’t expect perfection but do be diligent. Regular and consistent home maintenance can reduce the potential for problems in the future.
Old but Operating as Intended? Not a Defect.
Old doesn’t always mean bad. If those vintage appliances or the 30-year-old roof are still doing what they were designed to do, they won’t make it onto the report as defects. Home Inspectors are focused on functionality and safety. However, you will want to keep the age of these systems in mind so that you budget to replace them at the end of their useful lives. You might also want to purchase a home warranty for extra peace of mind.
It’s Not About Cosmetics.
A home inspection is not a beauty contest. Your inspector won’t be scrutinizing the color of the curtains or the style of the wallpaper. Our job is to look beyond the surface and at the structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical components of the property.
The Inspection is Not Pass or Fail.
Finally, remember this: there is no passing or failing a home inspection. Inspectors will not give homes a grade. Instead, we’re here to provide a comprehensive snapshot of a property’s condition, warts and all, so that you know what’s going on in your new home.
Home inspections can be scary and overwhelming, especially for first- time home buyers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your inspector and your REALTOR® along the way. By keeping the above tips in mind, you can feel confident in the condition of your soon-to-be home and how to keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Rachel Oslund is the General Manager of LodeStar Inspection Services in Baltimore, MD. She has been a licensed home inspector for over a decade and was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Maryland Commission of Real Estate Appraisers, Appraisal Management Companies and Home Inspectors.
