What to expect during your home inspection

Before you can purchase a house, you need to order a home inspection to get a thorough report on the condition of the home. This is a key part of the home buying process and helps you ensure that you're not getting a lemon.

During the assessment, the inspector will view several areas in and around the property. Here the factors that will be evaluated:

• Site: The inspection will begin on the exterior, and your expert will determine whether utilities are in good condition. Then, the land's grading and drainage will be inspected.
• Exterior: This part of the process will look at structures on the outside of your prospective home, including steps, windows, decks and the garage.
• Roofing: The property inspection look for any issues such as leaks and determine the risks associated with the type of roof.
• Foundation: This is another time when your inspector will not only assess whether there is damage - cracks, moisture and other issues - but he or she will also tell you what kind of foundation you have and the associated risks.
• Interior: Moving inside, your professional will review the condition of different rooms, focusing on items such as floors, doors, stairways and walls.
• Plumbing: In addition to checking water flow and pressure for your tubs, sinks and showers, the inspector will determine what type of pipes you have and their status.
• Electrical: After reviewing your electrical systems, your expert will make a recommendation for any repairs that require the attention of an electrician.
• Heating and air conditioning: These parts of the inspection will examine vents, flues, ducts, returns, filters, air flow and your air conditioning system, including the condensate drains.

After you read the inspector's report, you can negotiate any repairs or their costs as a provision your home sale contract.

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