A Lawyer’s Home Inspection: What Do You Need To Know?

When buying a new home or selling an old one, it is essential to have a home inspection done. A home inspection is a thorough look at the state of a home done by a licensed professional with experience inspecting homes. This blog post will look at how a lawyer’s home inspection differs from a standard real estate inspection and what you should look for when hiring a home inspector.

What Is A Real Estate Inspection?

A real estate inspection can be helpful when buying or selling a home. It evaluates the property’s physical condition. Also, its constituent components include plumbing, electrical systems, and major appliances. An inspection aims to find any problems that need fixing and let the buyer know about them. It helps them make decisions about further negotiation, repairs, or even terminating the sale if necessary. Whether buying or selling, an inspection could keep you from getting a surprise that costs you a lot of money. 

hiring a home inspector

What Is A House Inspection?

  • A house inspection is a service that allows you to look behind a home’s walls, ceilings, and floors.
  • Depending on what the inspector is looking for, there are different levels of inspection. Unlike a full home inspection, a termite inspection does not check the home’s structure. The inspector will look for visible signs of termites and evidence of previous activity, but he won’t look for water damage or mold.
  • A full home inspection, on the other hand, will inspect the entire home. This includes looking for structural issues, electrical issues, plumbing issues, and more. The inspector may also check the foundation, the HVAC system, the roof, the attic, and more.
  • The home inspector will look for issues by looking at the home’s history, inspecting the home’s interior and exterior, taking moisture readings, examining plumbing pipes, and checking electrical connections. He will also check for pests or mold.

What To Expect From Your Lawyer’s Home Inspection?

  • Your home purchase contract will include a home inspection contingency. This contingency allows you to cancel the contract if the inspection uncovers significant damages.
  • Home inspections are designed to identify defects in a property, not estimate repair costs. However, if an estimate is required, the home inspector should refer you to a general contractor who can assess repairs and provide an estimate.
  • Before your inspection, review the seller’s disclosures and note any defects or problems you see.
  • On the day of the inspection, the home inspector will walk you through their review. They will examine the house from top to bottom, including the roof, attic, crawl space, and basement.
  • During the inspection, the home inspector will point out defects and ask if you have any concerns about the house.
  • If serious defects are found, the home inspector recommends you consult with a general contractor and contractor for repair estimates.

What Does The Inspection Include?

  • When purchasing a new piece of furniture, it’s a good idea to have it inspected. This includes furniture that you buy at a store, furniture that you buy online, or furniture that you receive as a gift.
  • The inspection includes checking the condition of the furniture, making sure it is put together, and making sure it is not broken in any way. The inspector may also check the warranty information if the table is new.
  • The inspector will also check to see if the furniture meets the statutory requirements for the province or territory in which you live. They all have to do with safety, such as making sure furniture doesn’t fall over or swing around and following fire codes.  By checking the condition of the furniture, making sure that it is assembled, and verifying that it’s free of damage, the inspector can help you avoid any potential problems down the road.

What To Ask Your Lawyer Before Scheduling A Home Inspection?

You don’t have to schedule a home inspection to ensure the seller tells you about any problems. Instead, your lawyer can walk through the house with you.

  • Ask the backyard, exterior, and kitchen if anyone is listed on the lease. If the seller lives there, ask the seller to leave until the house is sold.
  • Ask if there are utilities in your name. If so, you’ll need to arrange to get these transferred to your name as soon as possible.
  • Ask about any easements or covenants.
  • Ask to see a copy of the survey.
  • Ask if you can walk through the house with the seller present. If the seller isn’t present, ask the seller to leave before you walk through the house.

Conclusion

When buying a new home, hiring a good lawyer is the best way to deal with any legal problems. With the help of an experienced lawyer, you can go into the closing prepared and make a better decision for you and your family. Contact Southern Coast Realty today if you’re ready to take on this process on your own or need some extra guidance. We are real estate law experts and can provide all the support you need. To avoid surprises at closing, we’ll make sure your purchase goes smoothly. Contact us today for more information on how we can help make your next home legal.

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