A home inspection is supposed to give you peace of mind, but often has the opposite effect. You will be asked to absorb a lot of information in a short time. This often includes a written report, checklist, photographs, environmental reports and what the inspector himself
says during the inspection. All this combined with the seller's disclosure and what you notice yourself makes the experience e
ven more overwhelming. Most of your inspection will be maintenance recommendations, life
expectancy and minor imperfections. These are nice to know about, however, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories:
Major defects. For example a structural failure such as a cracked foundation. Things that lead to major defects. For example a small roof-flashing leak. Things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy or insure the home. For example Federal Pacific Electric panels (these were
deemed a fire hazard and de-listed from UL safety standards)
Safety hazards. For example an exposed, live buss bar in the electric panel. Anything in these categories should be addressed. Often a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property (especially in categories 2 and 4). Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn of defects uncovered during an inspection. Realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in the report. No home is perfect. Keep things in
perspective. Do not kill your deal over things that do not matter. Remember to understand conditions already listed on the seller's disclosure list as well as anything found during your own personal inspection.
