What a Home Inspection May Not Reveal

Buying a home is a big decision, so of course you want to make sure there are no major defects with the property before making such a large investment. Although home inspectors are a fantastic source of knowledge and will be able to identify most major issues, there are some things that an inspection will not reveal. Read on to find out more about what hidden flaws may exist in your future home that may not be recognized in a standard home inspection.

The septic system

Ask your home inspector if he or she is qualified to check the septic system. Often times because the septic system is underground, it is skipped in the inspection process. Just because the plumbing seems to be functioning fine in the house does not mean that there are not issues with the septic system. At times, however, overuse or improper maintenance or cleaning that cause serious and costly issues can be identified by simply flushing a toilet. Don’t be afraid to get involved!

The yard

A home inspector will spend most of his or her time evaluating the home itself rather than the condition of the land. Sick trees may impact safety and resale value in the future, and are sometimes not visible to the naked eye.

If the home has a sprinkler system, ask your inspector to evaluate the controllers, connections, drains, and sensors. System leaks or failures can result in seriously high water bills, or even worse, water damage to your home.

Finally, ask your inspector if he or she is qualified to check complex pool equipment. Things like pool pumps, heaters, filters, and electrical equipment can be pricey repairs.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a set of six toxic, naturally-occurring silicate minerals previously used widely in American construction. If you are thinking about purchasing an older home, it may be a wise decision to hire an additional inspector to test for asbestos and have it removed before you move in. Asbestos can often be overlooked because it can be hiding in materials used in flooring, attic insulation, and pipe covering. Living with asbestos can cause respiratory diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Remember that although home inspections are a very necessary part of the home buying process, an inspection should not be the only thing you consider before deciding to purchase a home. The key to getting the most accurate and thorough assessment on a home is to hire an inspector who is licensed and who is familiar with the area surrounding the home.