A home inspection report should be concise and understandable. That’s why home inspectors try to avoid technical jargon. They also try to avoid predicting or recommending further evaluations.
The Inspection
During the home inspection, a qualified inspector identifies issues and offers advice for potential buyers. After completing their onsite examination, the inspector prepares a report that describes the condition of the property. It also estimates the remaining useful life of major components.
The report will include a summary page that reviews all major concerns, along with links to the other pages of the report where they are located. It is a good idea to start reading the report from this page before moving on.
In the report, you will find information about the foundation, structure and major systems of the house including heating and cooling (HVAC), plumbing and electrical. You will also learn how well the attic, crawl space and basement are insulated and ventilated. You will learn about doors and windows, as well as the roof and exterior finishes. You will find a list of the home’s safety features, such as working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Observations and Findings
The most important section of a home inspection report is where the inspector notes what they observed during the home’s assessment. They will include photos, descriptions and any recommendations for repair.
Inspectors will usually note any structural issues – like cracked walls or foundations, sagging floors, or damage to load bearing elements. They will also mention the presence of wood destroying organisms and any water leaks that they find – whether it’s stains on the ceiling or water leaking into the attic.
They will also note the condition of electrical components, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and doors and windows. They might also give general maintenance tips or recommend further evaluation by a specialist, such as a plumber, electrician or roof repairman. Good inspectors will use a legend to distinguish informational comments, observational comments, repair comments and safety concerns. They will also provide a summary page that highlights the most important findings of the report.
Recommendations
Once the inspector has noted any issues he thinks need attention, the report will usually list recommendations. These can be informational, observational, or repair-related, and are meant to help the buyer, their agent, and the home inspector decide how best to proceed with the inspection.
These can include items such as:
A good inspector should also disclaim any portions of the property that are not inspected due to obscurity or inaccessibility, and this should be clearly written in the report. This will allow buyers to be aware of any possible problems that could become costly later on.
The Final Report
A good inspector will provide a summary page reviewing all major points of the inspection, including areas of concern. This will help the client prioritize what needs attention and allows them to make an informed buying decision.
The final report will include the overall condition of the home, the major systems (electrical, plumbing and HVAC), and any other observed issues. The report will also indicate the items that may need repair or replacement in the near future.
Home buyers often use this information to negotiate with sellers and ask for credits toward the cost of the home or to perform the repairs themselves after closing. For sellers, a home inspection is an opportunity to identify and address items that may be important for prospective buyers, improving the saleability of the property.