The Inspection Process

It is important to know as much as you possibly can about the house you are purchasing. If possible, schedule your home inspections when you are able to be present. This will allow you to learn more about your prospective new home, its present condition, and the repairs and maintenance necessary to protect your investment for the future. We recommend that you retain the services of licensed professionals to perform your inspections. Some of the most common types of inspections typically conducted include:

General/Engineering: This typically covers the major general elements of the home, including heating and cooling systems, plumbing, and electric for the main structure and outbuildings.

Pests: Commonly referred to as the termite inspection, this should cover all wood-destroying insects. Visual inspection will be made of the home and outbuildings. Your report should contain a certification of non-infestation and/or an account of any existing damage and recommended treatment.

Radon: Radon is an odorless and invisible radioactive gas naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Radon can get into homes or buildings through small cracks or holes and build up to higher levels. Over time, breathing in high radon levels can cause lung cancer. In most cases, if elevated levels of radon are found, a mitigation system can be installed to correct the situation. For more information: epa.gov/radon

Mold: Air tests can be performed to determine the presence of mold that is airborne and/or not otherwise visible.

Well/Water: If there is a well on the property, laboratory analysis of the water will assure you of its quality and potability. Tests can also be performed to determine the integrity and capacity of the well.

Offer and Acceptance: Once your offer has been accepted and both parties have signed and received copies of the contract, it will be considered legally binding.

It should be noted that real estate contracts may contain many different and varying terms. Callaway Henderson SIR does not provide legal advice. You should consult with an attorney who will advise you on the specific terms of your contract and your legal rights. The buyer is advised to personally verify all pertinent information that would be of concern prior to signing a contract, such as taxes, square footage, property size, maintenance, or permits. Your agent will be happy to assist as you obtain information to help confirm these details.

Septic/Sewer Line: If a home’s sanitary sewage is serviced by a private septic system, a septic specialist should be enlisted to perform an inspection to determine its condition and whether it is indeed functioning properly. Plumbing scans of public sewer lines are sometimes conducted as part of the inspection process as well.

Chimney: A video inspection and evaluation of a home’s chimneys can help ensure proper ventilation and prevent fire hazards associated with the use of fireplaces and heating appliances.

Asbestos: Asbestos has been used in a variety of building construction materials. Fibers released into the air can present a health hazard. Any asbestos work must be performed by a licensed contractor and an air test should be conducted to ascertain effectiveness. For more information: epa.gov/asbestos

Lead Paint: Paint chips and dust from deteriorating lead paint are toxic and can cause poisoning when the particles are inhaled or ingested. For homes built prior to 1978, the buyer and seller must be presented with a lead disclosure booklet and sign an acknowledgment that they have received it. For more information: epa.gov/lead

Underground Tanks: In-ground fuel tanks are subject to testing for leakage and soil contamination. A tank scan can be completed in order to locate an underground storage tank (UST) that may be unknown to the seller.