Limited awareness leads to confusion regarding the purpose and scope of residential property inspection. A rental property inspection is primarily used to ensure habitability standards are met before or after tenant move-in, while a home inspection serves as an evaluation of the property’s overall condition.
Buying a Home
Home inspections are typically a part of the home-buying process. A buyer should have an inspector conduct a thorough evaluation of the property prior to signing a sales contract. Having a home inspection done early can help buyers avoid surprises that could impact their decision making and allow them to negotiate with the seller in a timely manner.
It’s important for a homebuyer to attend the inspection, so they can get a first-hand look at some of the issues an inspector finds (e.g., sagging beams/roof or major insect damage). This will also help them determine how significant the problems are and whether they’re worth bringing up with the seller during the negotiation process.
It’s also a good idea for a homebuyer to clear away any plant growth, clutter or items that could impair the inspector’s access to the property. This will enable them to assess the property and make sure that there is easy access to areas such as basements, attics, furnace rooms and under sinks.
Renting a Home
When seeking a new rental home, it’s essential that prospective tenants take the time to research neighborhoods in which they’re interested and tour properties. This can help them narrow down their options and determine whether the property is right for them.
Before a tenant moves in, they should have the property inspected. A pre-tenancy inspection focuses on ensuring that the property meets basic habitability standards and can be conducted before or during a lease term.
During these inspections, the landlord can use a checklist to systematically go over each aspect of the property, including walls, appliances, and fixtures, noting the condition in which they’re found. It’s also important for landlords to adhere to legal requirements regarding notice periods and frequency of inspections. These guidelines can help ensure that the inspection process is as transparent as possible for all involved.
Selling a Home
Home inspectors look for a wide range of issues. It’s nearly impossible to have a report without something being found that needs to be addressed. Even new homes have things that need attention, such as a missing shingle or a pane of glass that needs to be replaced.
If you are selling your home, getting a pre-inspection can help reduce the number of issues that might come up on a buyer’s inspection. You will have to comply with your state’s laws regarding seller disclosure, but knowing in advance of major issues can allow you to disclose them early in the process and increase your chances of getting a good offer.
If a buyer finds problems during a home inspection that you were unaware of, it could derail the sale or cause them to walk away from the deal altogether. It’s important to work with your real estate agent and home inspector to be as helpful as possible.
Multi-Unit Inspections
The CDC advises that multifamily properties (including apartment buildings, condominiums, townhome developments, and duplexes) should be inspected for sanitary conditions every year. These inspections, when performed properly, can help prevent serious health and safety issues.
Typically, a multi-unit inspection requires the inspector to inspect each dwelling unit within a larger building or development, including common areas like hallways and stairs. In these situations, it is important to use a system that allows the inspector to clearly identify each unit through photos of the entrance door and unit number.
It is also helpful to have a system in place for reporting issues found in the units that can be easily tracked by the inspector. This can make the difference in identifying and resolving housing concerns quickly. In addition, it allows for easy follow up by the inspector with the appropriate party to address issues. This helps ensure that the necessary repairs are made and that the property is in compliance.