The property inspector is responsible for ensuring a residential property complies with construction regulation, is free of hazards and structural defects, and everything is in working order. An inspector will visit a residential property during their inspection, looking closely for visual signs of potential problems and using specialized instruments to take a closer look.
After a thorough investigation, your property inspector will compile a report listing any issues they found and recommendations to help with repairs or improvements. Home inspectors should also have a line of communication with realtors, homeowners, or potential buyers.
A home inspector will regularly update everyone involved with inspection progress or any new construction regulations. They play an important role when buying or selling a house, allowing for complete transparency during negotiations and signing.
What happens in a property inspection?
A property inspection is an interactive process where you get an expert walk-through of the home you’re considering. A typical inspection can take a few hours to complete because their investigation needs to be thorough and recorded in an organized way. Here’s what you can expect from a property inspection.
1. Visual inspection
During the visual inspection, your home inspector will look at the home’s roof, floors, walls, windows, and doors. As they walk through the home, they will also assess the integrity of the property’s structure and mechanical systems.
2. Documentation and pictures
Expect the property inspector to take many pictures throughout their walk-through. These will be included in the report and will also serve as proof of any issues found. This can be used before and after a repair to ensure it was completed.
3. Report with recommendations
The report will contain a professional opinion on the condition of the property, home, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical system. A home inspection report will also identify areas that need repair or maintenance. After these recommendations, potential buyers will also have time to look over the report before closing.
What do you look for during a property inspection?
Property inspectors are looking for areas that need repair, possible safety hazards, and that the home is up to code. Property inspectors should be up to date on local building regulations and can serve as a guide on how a home can be approved. Here’s a list of things that property inspectors look for.
What to look for:
- Leaks and plumbing issues
- Electrical system
- HVAC condition
- Roofing and flooring
- Foundation
- Hazardous materials, i.e., led paint
- Insulation and energy efficiency
- Basement, attic, and garage conditions
The main concern of a property inspector isn’t the value of a home, and their report cannot serve as an appraisal. A property inspector looks for issues that need repair and structural faults.
Are you in need of a property inspection? Contact Kansas REI to schedule your property inspection and find out everything you need to know about a home.
Is a property inspection the same as an appraisal?
A property inspection is not the same as an appraisal. Property inspections are more concerned with the integrity of a structure and if it’s following code. An appraisal considers anything that can affect property value like lot size, crime rates, or how the property compares to other homes in the neighborhood.
Inspection vs. appraisal:
- They look for different things
- Both are usually required
- Inspection is done before appraisal
- Appraisals focus on property value
- Inspectors focus on repairs, safety, and structure
Property inspections and appraisals also share some similarities. They both identify issues within and around a home, help establish a home’s worth, and are third-party services with nothing to gain from a transaction. You should always have a property inspection and appraisal before buying or selling a home.
Do appraisers look in the garage?
Yes, appraisers look in the garage. You can expect an appraiser to take pictures inside and around your home, including the garage and any other structures included with the property. Home inspectors also look in the garage, ensuring that everything is up to code and that there are no structural faults.
When appraisers look in your garage, they are mainly concerned about the structure’s size, condition, and function. Some structural issues may be identified in an appraisal, such as noticeable cracks, leaks, or any signs of deferred maintenance.
Your appraiser will also consider how many cars can fit in the garage or alternative uses depending on its size. Before scheduling an appraisal, make sure you get your property inspection. Contact Kansas REI to schedule a home inspection in Wichita, Kansas.
