When purchasing a home, it is advisable to get a home inspection. A licensed inspector will check the property according to standards of The National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. (NAHI), which recommends that its members perform inspections in accordance with its Standards, Code of Ethics, and applicable law(s).
What is an inspector limited to checking is a common question. According to NAHI, any area that is concealed or not easily accessible is excluded. Yes, this means that they are not required to move personal belongings, furniture, panelling, etc. They are not responsible for checking alarms, intercoms, irrigation systems, appliances, fences, shrubbery, or to determine if there are any wood destroying insects and any damage that they may have caused. Furthermore, a home inspector is not responsible for checking the quality of the air or for the presence of mold, radon, or any type of toxicity.
The inspector is not required to check for any permits (decks, fences, additions, etc.), violations of codes, ordinances, regulations, boundaries or encroachments. In essence, the inspection and report are opinions based on visual observations of existing conditions discovered at the time of an inspection.
While a NAHI inspector will more than likely do a good job advising you of any conditions or defects that may exist during the inspection, it may be a good idea to have a follow up inspection by a plumber, roofer, HVAC professional, or any other professional that may be deemed necessary for any concerns that have been brought to light that may have you reaching into your pockets after the purchase of your new home. Of course, if there are only minor repairs needed, maintenance records showing that the property has been well maintained, or if you are buying a distressed property for well below market value, you may want to continue your purchase and just request that all or some of the repairs recommended be done. Your real estate professional will work on your behalf during this inspection period; however, it is important to use common sense. Afterall, you have finally found your dream home and you don't want to lose the home either.
In the unlikely event that you are waiving your inspections, you may want to consider asking for a home warranty and/or perhaps a roof certification. Most mortgage companies will require that you get a Wood Infestation certification proving that there are no active termites or wood destroying insects. For more information click on our link to the PA National Association of Home Inspectors.
