6 Reasons Why You Need a Home Inspection

1. Uncover Safety Issues

A home inspection is the opportunity to detect safety issues including radon, carbon monoxide, mold, improper electrical wiring, inoperable windows, and roof deficiencies.

2. Reveal Structural Issues & Illegal Additions/Installations

One of the most important aspects of a home is the structure. A home inspection provides a chance to locate any potential structural issues including cracks in the ceilings or walls, cracks in the foundation, and out of level doors and windows. Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to fix, but if you can catch an issue before it gets out of hand, it could save you money in the end.

Other issues that can arise are illegal additions or installations to a home. Whether it is an add-on room or an altered garage or carport, all should have the proper permits and remain up-to-code. These issues can affect home insurance, taxes, and even the overall value in a home.

3. Uncover Possible Pest/Insect Problems

The likelihood of having a pest or insect problem in south Louisiana is very high, so it is always important to ensure your home is not a victim. Pests most looked for in a home inspection are wood-destroying pests such as termites or carpenter ants. But don’t forget other pests like snakes, bees and more.

4. Forecast Potential Future Costs

A home inspection is a great resource to help you create a plan for future expenses. A home inspector can approximate the age of major systems in your home like heating and cooling, plumbing, appliances, roofing, electrical, etc. Knowing when these may require replacement can help you prepare your budget in the long-run for home maintenance.
A home inspection also helps to educate you on protecting your investment. A home inspector can provide you tips and tricks on maintaining your home, which could save you money down the road.

5. Peace of Mind

Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments in most people’s lifetime. Having a home inspection can provide you the peace of mind you need when making this significant purchase. Not only does an inspection tell you of present problems, but it can also help you plan for future problems as well.

6. Price Negotiation

Though a home inspection contingency is not to get a lower price on a home because of minor issues found, it is important when there are major problems discovered in a home. Major issues found in a home inspection can be reason to request a price reduction or allowance from the seller to go toward repairs after closing.

Though, if a buyer and seller cannot agree on terms for repair or price, a buyer is generally granted an “out” from the offer to purchase the home. A buyer is also allowed an “out” if he/she is not comfortable with the findings of the inspection even with promise from the seller to fix the issues.