The Value of a Home Inspection Before You Buy Your Home

​Buying a home is a big risk. Even if you love the home, you never know what happened there. A home inspection can give you some insight into the condition of the home on a more thorough level. From a home insurance point-of-view, that’s important. It can help you, and your insurance agent, know the home is safe. A home inspection is always a good investment. How can it pinpoint insurance-related problems?

Home Inspections Start at the Roof
The roof is one of the most important structures of the home. It provides initial protection from rain and outdoor exposure. The roof inspection should tell you the age and condition of the room. Most inspectors will also tell you when you can expect to need to replace it. That’s important to home insurance companies. If there’s already significant damage, they may not cover a claim you make.

Inspecting the Main Utilities
The home inspector should also look at the condition of the home’s plumbing and electrical systems. This gives you insight into how safe your home is from the risk of electrical fires as well as burst pipes. Your home insurance may cover some of these risks, but only if they occur as the result of a sudden and inspected incident. You want to be sure the home is safe from the start, to reduce these risks.

Inspections Uncover Concerns with the Foundation
Most home insurance policies do not cover foundation repairs. The coverage depends on the cause of the damage.

However, your home inspection will look at the quality of the foundation and pinpoint concerns. This is one of the most expensive repairs you may need to make. It is wise to know if it is necessary from the start.

Ensuring Main Systems Are Working
The home inspection should also look at all major systems in the home. The inspector will ensure they are working and in good condition. This includes your air conditioning, heating, and water heater. It should include any drainage system, such as a sump pump, as well. If there’s an exterior well or tank, they should inspect these, too. Insurance doesn’t cover damage to these from normal wear and tear.

Home inspections provide information and insight you need before you buy a home. Walk with your inspector around the home to learn the ins and outs of it. This gives you information you cannot have on your own.

Blog post by: ITC

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