What Sellers Should Expect During a Home Inspection

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

Understanding what to expect during a home inspection can make the difference between a smooth real estate transaction and a stressful one. This critical step helps buyers confirm the condition of a property and offers sellers the opportunity to showcase their home’s integrity. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or listing your family home, knowing how inspections work gives you control, clarity, and confidence.

Understanding the Home Inspection Process

A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive examination of a property conducted by a licensed professional. It typically occurs after the buyer and seller sign a purchase agreement but before closing. The inspector checks major systems—roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, foundation—and identifies any material defects. Inspections usually take between 2 to 4 hours and end with a comprehensive report outlining key findings, often with photos and recommendations.

What Buyers Should Expect During a Home Inspection

Choose a Reliable Inspector

Start by hiring a reputable, certified home inspector. Look for credentials from organizations like ASHI or InterNACHI. Ask for sample reports and reviews from recent clients. A good inspector will not only be thorough but also help you understand the results without confusing jargon.

Be Present—But Stay Respectful

While it’s not mandatory, attending the inspection is highly recommended. It gives you a chance to observe issues firsthand, ask questions, and get tips on maintaining the property. However, avoid crowding the inspector—let them do their job efficiently.

What the Report Includes

The home inspection report will cover:

• Roofing and drainage systems
• Attic and insulation
• Foundation, basement, or crawlspaces
• Plumbing and water heaters
• Electrical wiring, panels, and outlets
• Heating and air conditioning systems
• Doors, windows, walls, and ceilings

Optional tests such as radon, mold, or sewer scopes are not part of the standard inspection but can be requested separately.

Major Systems to Prioritize

Focus on critical systems that impact safety and budget. These include:

• Roof: Look for leaks, damaged shingles, or old age.
• Electrical: Check for outdated wiring, double-tapped breakers, or unsafe panels.
• Plumbing: Identify leaks, corrosion, or old piping materials.
• HVAC: Ensure heating and cooling systems are functional and maintained.
• Foundation: Monitor for cracks, uneven floors, or water intrusion.

Don’t Overlook Optional Add-ons

Optional inspections such as sewer scopes, roof certifications, and pest checks offer deeper insights. Sewer scopes, for instance, are conducted using a camera—often entered through a roof vent—to detect root intrusion, clogs, or pipe degradation. While they cost extra, these inspections can save thousands later.

Use the Findings Strategically

Don’t panic if the report looks long—many findings are minor or common. Work with your real estate agent to prioritize repairs, request seller credits, or plan your own fixes after closing. Always focus on health, safety, and financial impact over cosmetic issues.

What Sellers Should Expect During a Home Inspection

Clean and Clear All Access Points

Make it easy for the inspector to access crawlspaces, electrical panels, water heaters, and attics. Replace burned-out light bulbs, change furnace filters, and clear under-sink cabinets. These small touches demonstrate care and reduce unnecessary notes in the report.

Disclose What You Know

Be upfront about any known issues. Provide records of past repairs, upgrades, or permits. This builds trust and can prevent deal-breaking surprises later. Transparency is one of the best tools you have as a seller.

Should You Do a Pre-Inspection?

A pre-listing inspection allows you to identify and fix issues before buyers do. While not always necessary, it can give you more control over negotiations and speed up the closing process.

Leave the Home During the Inspection

Plan to be away for at least 2 to 4 hours. Buyers feel more comfortable asking questions and inspecting details when the seller isn’t present. Turn on lights, open closets, and leave a welcoming note if needed.

Secure Pets and Remove Personal Items

Ensure pets are crated or removed during the inspection. Hide personal documents and valuables. This not only keeps the inspector safe but also helps buyers focus on the property—not your belongings.

Common Misconceptions About Home Inspections

• There’s no “pass” or “fail”—the inspector simply reports what they observe.
• It’s not a warranty or insurance—it doesn’t guarantee future performance.
• Almost every home, even new ones, will have some findings.

The Role of Your Real Estate Agent

Your agent is an invaluable asset during the inspection process. They help interpret findings, suggest negotiation strategies, and recommend trusted contractors. Whether you’re buying or selling, a good agent keeps everything on track.

Final Thoughts

Knowing what to expect during a home inspection can calm nerves and build confidence. Buyers learn the true condition of the home, and sellers get a chance to prove the value of their property. With the right preparation, honesty, and support, inspections help both sides make informed, fair decisions and move forward with clarity.

FAQs

What if my home “fails” the inspection?

Homes don’t pass or fail. The inspection simply reports the current condition of the property.

How long does a typical inspection take?

Most home inspections take between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size and age of the home.

Should I be present at the inspection?

Yes, if possible. Being there allows you to ask questions and understand the home better.

Do sellers have to fix everything?

No. Buyers can negotiate repairs or request credits, but sellers are not obligated to fix every issue.

Is a home inspection legally required?

No, but it is strongly recommended by real estate professionals and often required by lenders.

What’s the biggest red flag?

Major issues like structural damage, mold, or faulty wiring often signal costly repairs.

Additional Resources

• American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
• U.S. EPA – Radon Information
• How to Choose a Home Inspector
• First-Time Homebuyer Checklist