How to Read a Home Inspection Report

How do I read a home inspection report?
Read the whole report once. Then sort the findings into what affects safety or health, what needs a specialist, and what is normal wear. Then decide what to ask for. We read it with you.

The Mike Webb Team (Mike and Claudia Webb, RE/MAX Allegiance) helps homeowners in Arlington, Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC get their homes ready to sell and sold.

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) says reports are generally split by major systems and parts of the home, such as heating and cooling, electrical, plumbing, roof and windows, with the inside and outside shown separately. Many inspectors also mark trouble spots in photos with red arrows or marks. Source: ASHI, What to Do When the Home Inspection Reveals Red Flags.

No. ASHI says an inspector does not pass or fail a house. The inspector describes the home's condition and notes parts that may need major repair or replacement. An inspection is not an appraisal and does not check whether the home meets local code. If an area is locked, blocked or unsafe, the inspector notes that it could not be checked. Source: ASHI, What Is a Home Inspection?.

Start with health and safety concerns and significant problems with the structure or systems. ASHI lists plumbing, heating and cooling, electrical, severe roof or foundation problems, severe water damage including mold, and pest damage as areas to watch closely. ASHI also says cosmetic issues are normal wear and tear that often are not worth raising with the seller. Source: ASHI, Repair Requests After Your Home Inspection.

An inspection can lead to more inspections. ASHI gives examples such as a chimney inspection or a roofer's evaluation. These extra visits help you learn the real size of a problem before you decide.

ASHI describes three main choices. You can ask the seller to make repairs or give a credit. You can ask for a lower price. In extreme cases you can end the contract under your inspection contingency, which generally returns your escrow funds. ASHI also says no home is perfect, and that your inspector can usually answer follow-up questions. Read What to Ask the Seller to Fix After Inspection and our Home Inspection Guide for Arlington, VA Buyers.

Should I go to the inspection?
ASHI says attending and talking with the inspector can help you understand the home. We are glad to come with you.

Is a long report a bad sign?
Not by itself. Length is not a score. Look at what the findings are.

I am selling. Should I read one too?
Yes. ASHI suggests sellers think about a pre-listing inspection to find problems early. Read Pre-Listing Home Inspection: Should Sellers Get One?.

Call or text Claudia at 703-350-3884 or visit claudiawebb.com.

The Mike Webb Team, RE/MAX Allegiance. Arlington, Virginia. Equal Housing Opportunity.