A home inspection is a visual assessment of the structure and components included in a home. If the inspector detects any current or future problems on the property in Illinois, the buyers are then given the opportunity to determine whether or not these issues need to be taken care of immediately and who will be responsible for paying for them. Additionally, having an inspection done allows buyers to gain an objective view on the home they want to purchase without allowing their emotions to cloud over their judgment.

Structures the inspection covers

The structures that are assessed during a home inspection often depend on the type of property. However, in general, home inspections cover the following features:

  • Interior—this may include the counter tops, cabinets, walls, ceilings, floors, garage door system and any other structures within the home.
  • Exterior—during an inspection, the inspector may analyze the driveways, sidewalks, doors, windows, balconies, attached porches and other exterior structures.
  • Plumbing—the inspector will likely assess the water and drainage supply systems and may look for banging pipes, corrosion, rust spots or any other issues that could indicate a plumbing problem.
  • Heating—this may include an analysis of whether the heating system is the right size for the home and the system’s energy rating.
  • Electrical—the inspector will usually look at the condition of the breakers, outlets, service panels and other electrical features that make up the home’s electrical system.

During a home inspection, the inspector may also asses the roof of the home, the home’s ventilation and insulation, the general structure of the home, including the foundation and framing, and the air conditioning system.

If the report reveals problems

At the conclusion of the inspection, the person performing the assessment will usually provide those buying a home with a report that details what features were looked at, their condition and whether or not repairs need to be performed. If the report reveals problems, buyers should not feel like they need to find another home to purchase. Instead, they should determine, with the assistance of their real estate agent, if they should require the buyer to handle the repairs before closing or if they should take responsibility for the needed repair work.

During the purchasing process, buyers may find it difficult to negotiate necessary repair work with the person selling the home they wish to buy without offending the seller and ultimately jeopardizing the sale. In this situation, buyers may benefit from speaking with a real estate attorney who can guide them during this portion of the selling process and help them determine if the requests they make of the seller are reasonable.