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  INSPECTIONS AND REPAIRS
 
 

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  Disputes over property condition and repairs can kill a deal in a hurry. Take the time to schedule inspections and nail down the condition of the property as early as possible to allow adequate time for resolving any issues that arise.

12 Questions Buyers Should Ask the Home Inspector

1. Are you a member in good standing of a professional inspectors organization, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors?

2. Are you licensed? (Required only in some states)

3. What systemsplumbing, heating, electricalwill the inspection include?

4. How long will the inspection take?

5. How much will the inspection cost?

6. Can we accompany you on the inspection?

7. Do you have references?

8. Do you carry errors and omissions insurance?

9. What is your specialty and what sort of continuing education have you completed? Note: If the inspector is a plumber by training and has no expertise in home construction, the inspection might not be comprehensive.

TIP: If your customers have particular concerns about one area of the home—the foundation, for instance—suggest that they hire a second inspector who specializes in that component.

10. Do you provide a written report at no extra charge?

11. Does the report include estimates of repair costs?

12. Does your company also do repairs when you find problems? If the answer is yes, it may indicate a conflict of interest.

For the Broker

Include statements in the contract that the sellers’ agent is not responsible for errors contained in the reports of third parties, such as credit reports, appraisals, and inspections.
 
 
SAMPLE INSPECTION LIST
Item Checked Needs Attention Comments
Exterior grading      
Tree safety      
Fences       
Patio      
Driveway, walkways      
Doors      
Windows, storm windows, screens      
Roof, flashing, gutters, downspouts      
Foundation, basement, crawl space      
Walls--exterior and interior      
Structural integrity of bridging and joists      
Sump pump      
Sewer, septic tanks, wells, if applicable      
Attic insulation and ventilation      
Flooring      
Fireplace damper, flues      
HVAC system      
Water heater      
Electricity      
Plumbing fixtures, water pressure      
Toilets, showers      
Stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher      
Washer, dryer      
Garbage disposal      
Garage door, electric opener      
Alarms, smoke detectors      
 
Other inspections
Termite      
Radon      
Asbestos      
Mold      
Lead-testing for paint and water      
Earthquake/ geological      
Underground storage tanks, if applicable      
 
TIP: If the sellers decide to offer a lower price rather than make repairs, be sure to obtain at least two written estimates for the work involved to ensure that the price is dropped in a way to reflect real expenses. 10 Ways to Prepare for a Home Inspection>