Seller Tips -
Things to know to pass the Home Inspection
Almost all buyers hire a licensed home inspector to inspect the home they plan to purchase. Buyers want to be sure that they won't be facing any costly repairs after the closing that they could have negotiated beforehand. Some repairs may be minor, while others more extensive.
Prior to putting their home on the market, some sellers have a "pre-inspection" done on their home, so they can address any issues and avoid any delays while in escrow or taking a chance in the buyer backing out of the purchase and having to cancel the closing.
Damp, Wet or Crumbling Foundation:
A home inspector will inspect around the perimeter of the foundation (for slab foundations) and/or under the house crawl space (for raised foundations). Some homes have a combination of slab and raised foundation. The inspector will check if there is any evidence of dampness or standing water around the foundation and any crumbling that could indicate a failing foundation which could be a major issue.
Roof Problems:
Any repairs or replacement you have done to the roof should be noted in the seller’s disclosures. Water stains on a ceiling caused by a leak (roof or water pipe leak) will be noted by an inspector. Old and worn shingles will also be noted and the inspector will render an opinion as to the remaining life expectancy of the roof.
Water or Plumbing Problems:
The inspector will inspect for visible signs of leaking or clogs in your plumbing. Water discoloration and odor are also observed and can indicate an altered PH or high mineral content. Your water may be also tested for potability. At the buyer’s request, radon and/or lead in the water may also be tested.
Electrical Deficiencies:
Your home should have at least a 100-amp service panel. A home inspector will note all un-grounded AC outlets as a safety issue and a fire hazard. You are required to have GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) AC outlets within 6 feet of each water faucet/source throughout your home. DIY (do-it-yourself) electrical repairs and connections not to code will be deemed unsafe and not recommended.
Furnace Condition:
Replacing a furnace is a costly. A typical life span for a furnace is 15 to 25 years. Inadequate heating in a home is usually the result of poor or insufficient insulation and an inefficient furnace. A clean furnace, without rust on the heat exchanger is usually viewed by the home inspector as having an acceptable life left in it. If you have cleaned your furnace annually be sure to make those records available if the gas company has not made that obvious by installing a service tag or some identifying sticker on the furnace to show the date of the last cleaning.
Masonry Work:
The home inspector will visually inspect the chimney either by getting onto the roof or from the ground by using binoculars. Damage to a chimney can cause water & moisture penetration or a chimney that could collapse onto the roof. Re-building the chimney may be required if it is deemed to be beyond repair.
Damp Attic:
Ventilation problems, insulation and vapor barriers can cause mold and mildew to form in the attic. This is the likeliest place that mold would be found in your home. If, upon inspection, you discover mold you should attempt to find the source of the moisture and cure the problem. This is something that will probably be asked of you by a buyer if it the home inspector notes this problem in the inspection report.
Rotted Wood:
Any wood surface such as decking, trim, door & window frames can also fall victim to moisture & old age. The home inspector will usually probe these surfaces for rot, including recently painted or stained sections.
