What Happens During a Home Inspection? A Step-by-Step Guide for Buyers and Sellers
Whether you're buying your first home or preparing to sell, one of the most critical milestones in the process is the home inspection. It’s a moment of truth that can bring peace of mind—or reveal issues that need attention before closing the deal. But what actually happens during a home inspection? Let’s break it down.
🏡 What Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a thorough, visual examination of a property's condition, usually conducted by a licensed home inspector. It’s typically scheduled after an offer is accepted but before closing. The goal? To identify potential issues that might not be visible during a casual walkthrough.
👷♂️ Who Attends the Inspection?
The Buyer: Highly recommended. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the home.
The Buyer’s Agent: Often present to help interpret findings and guide next steps.
The Inspector: The professional conducting the inspection.
🔍 What’s Inspected?
The inspector examines all major systems and structures, including:
1. Roof and Exterior
Shingles, flashing, gutters, downspouts
Siding, windows, doors
Decks, porches, and grading around the home
2. Foundation and Structure
Visible cracks or signs of settling
Crawl space moisture issues
3. Interior Systems
Walls, ceilings, and floors
Doors and windows
Stairways and railings
4. Electrical Systems
Circuit breakers, wiring, and outlets
Light fixtures and GFCI protection
5. Plumbing
Faucets, toilets, showers, water heaters
Visible pipes and water pressure
6. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Furnace and AC unit
Ductwork and thermostat function
7. Appliances (If Included)
Stove, dishwasher, microwave, and other major appliances that convey with the sale
📝 What Happens After the Inspection?
Once the inspection is complete, the inspector provides a detailed report—often within 24 hours. This report highlights:
Major issues (e.g., foundation cracks, roof damage)
Safety concerns (e.g., faulty wiring)
Maintenance items (e.g., gutters need cleaning)
🤝 How Buyers and Sellers Use the Report
Buyers may request repairs, a price reduction, or closing credits.
Sellers can choose to make repairs, negotiate, or sell as-is.
Either way, the report becomes a powerful negotiation tool that helps both parties make informed decisions.
💡 Pro Tips
Buyers: Always attend the inspection. Ask questions and take notes.
Sellers: Consider a pre-listing inspection to identify and address issues before going on the market.
Final Thoughts
A home inspection is not a pass/fail test—it’s a snapshot of a home’s condition. It’s designed to protect both parties and create transparency. With a good inspector and clear communication, this step can help ensure a smoother closing and greater peace of mind for everyone involved.
