The home inspections can be quite an overwhelming aspect of the home purchasing process. The report is required to have specific items while providing other valuable pieces of information. Yet when it comes to the home inspection report, there are many myths out there than can cause unnecessary confusion for both the home buyer and seller.
Myth #1 – Everything you need to know will be in the inspection report.
Fact – The home inspection report will give the buyer valuable information and will indicate weakness in the smoke detectors, heating and air condition systems, foundation, etc. But the prospective new homeowner can gain additional information if they are present during the actual inspection. Inspectors, ourselves included, sometimes give homeowners important maintenance tips and advice for many areas of the home. Attending the inspection will also allow for clarifying specific items in writing to reduce confusion or misunderstandings.
Myth #2 – Appraisals are just as comprehensive and detailed as the home inspection. So a good appraisal means a home inspection isn’t needed.
Fact – Appraisals and inspections are not the same nor should they be considered the same. Surprisingly, many homeowners believe a detailed appraisal covers all the aspects of the home inspection. In practice, however, this is not the case as the two looks for different strengths and weaknesses in the property. Ideally, homeowners should take both reports seriously and perhaps reviewed by an independent inspect to confirm the inspections validity.
Myth #3 – Home inspectors should tell the buyer everything about a home that could possibly go wrong.
Fact – Home inspectors are required to report specific items that are not working properly, especially if they are deemed unsafe for living conditions. Legally, home inspectors are required to inform the buyer and seller if certain items are need the end of their service life such as old or worn-out heating, plumping or electrical systems. Home inspectors, however, cannot predict nor should they take the responsibility of attempting to predict when something might go wrong.
Myth #4 – All home inspectors are licensed.
Fact – Only 30 of the 50 US States require home inspectors to be licensed. But some licensed inspectors will still very in their background and qualifications. Most home inspectors receive training and certification through a number of training and licensing programs but those still do not guarantee the full competency of the inspector. The buyer and seller should do their due diligence and homework on the company and inspector hired before signing with the inspector.