Buying a new home can be an exciting yet stressful process. There are many things you need to carefully take into consideration when buying a home so that you can ensure that everything goes smoothly. One of the most important factors to consider is a home inspection. Typically, inspections are done before a house is sold. They can give you a deeper understanding of the condition of the house and any issues you may need to address. The following information provides a closer look at four important questions you will want to ask your inspector before finally closing on your new home.
Is the Home Insulated Properly?
Insulation is an important factor to consider when buying a home. Therefore, you will want to ask the home inspector whether they think the insulation is up to par. If it isn’t, this can have a huge impact on your heating and cooling expenses each month. You should also inquire about what type of insulation was used because certain types can contain asbestos, which can lead to negative health consequences.
Is the Wiring Updated and Properly Functioning?
Purchasing a home with faulty or old wiring can end up costing you a lot of money in repairs later on down the line. Therefore, you will want to make sure that the inspector properly examines the wiring throughout the home. This will allow them to assure you whether or not the wiring is up to code or a potential fire hazard.
Is the Plumbing in Good Condition?
Plumbing is another important factor you will need to discuss. Your inspector should thoroughly examine pipes, the hot water tank, and water pressure. You should also ask them to check whether or not the home contains lead pipes. These can wear down over time and get into the water that you are drinking and bathing in, which can cause health issues. Lastly, you will want to know whether the home has septic tanks or if it’s connected to the public sewage system. This will give you a better idea of what to expect and your monthly utility costs.
Are There Indications of an Infestation?
Pest infestations can be quite costly to correct. Also, many types of pests can pose potential health risks. For example, some types of mice and rats carry harmful viruses in their feces. You will want to ask your inspector if they spotted anything unusual, such as droppings, nests, suspicious noises, musky smells, or damaged furniture and wiring. All of these are things to be cautious of, and you should make sure to discuss this thoroughly to avoid health issues and costly repairs.
Overall, buying a new home can be a tricky process. Home inspectors are there to ensure that the house is safe to move in and that everything meets the necessary requirements. Therefore, you should take full advantage of this opportunity and ask as many questions possible.