As an Accredited Buyers Representative, I always advise my clients to do their research and get a home inspection. So what exactly does a home inspection include? In this article we will touch on some of the basics. Keep in mind every property is different and the buyer gets to decide what inspections are preformed.

A home inspection determines the current state, safety, and condition of a home before you finalize your purchase. In a general home inspection, the inspector looks for problems with key structures and systems, such as foundation, moisture intrusion, HVAV and AC units, roofing, siding, plumbing, pest intrusion, dry rot, and electrical issues.

Related: What’s a Buyer Consultation & Why Do You Need One?

Home inspections are paid for by the buyer and are usually completed within 10 business days of mutual acceptance of the purchase. The cost varies depending on the company and the inspector. But in general, the buyer should be prepared to spend between $500-$1,200.

In addition to a general home inspection, I always advise buyers to get a sewer scope. A sewer scope is performed by a sewer technician who runs a camera down the sewer line. The sewer technician checks the overall condition and serviceability of the sewer line from your new home to the main lateral.

Another inspection that is often performed is a radon test. Radon is a natural gas produced by uranium in the soil. Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer. The US Environmental Agency (EPA) strongly recommends all buyers have a radon test performed before purchasing a home. In the event of radon levels above 4.0 PCI are discovered, a mitigation system installation is advised.

If any issues are uncovered during any of the home inspections, the buyer can request that the seller make applicable repairs. If the seller refuses and it’s a deal breaker, the buyer can withdraw their offer within the allotted inspection period and their earnest money will be refunded.

Keep in mind the home inspection is not designed to address cosmetic issues. I always like to tell buyers that they are agreeing to purchase the home in its current cosmetic condition.

This is a general overview of the home inspection process. There are many additional inspections that can be performed, depending on the home.

As a home buyer, it is extremely important to make sure that your buyer’s agent has the knowledge and experience to guide you through the inspection process. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions. I’m always happy to help!

For more information on radon, and to check your area’s risk levels, see Oregon Health Authority.

For more information on lead-based paint, see EPA Lead.

For more information on sewer scopes, see Environmental Works.

Call Rachel Bradley, Accredited Buyers Representative, at 503-936-3373 to talk more about home inspections. Better yet, schedule a Buyer Consultation to go over the entire home buying process!