Why You Should Obtain One

As a prospective homebuyer, are you sophisticated in identifying potential problem areas in your potential new home? Just as most people get used cars checked by their mechanic before purchasing, you should get your home checked by professionals. A small investment in inspections can save you hundreds of thousands of dollars in the future.

Common DFW Home Inspections

A general home inspector should look into the following areas:

• Structural:  Many home inspection organizations have set standards on certain areas of the home that the home inspector looks at to determine the integrity of the essential internal and external structural components. Home inspectors are not structural engineers but can identify visual defects in these areas requiring immediate repairs.
• Electrical:  Do the outlets all work? Does the house use fuses or is there a breaker box? Are there any visible signs of fraying on the wiring?
• Plumbing:  Are there any leaks or annoying drips? Are all mechanical systems and fixtures working properly?
• Built-In Appliances:  Are they functioning properly, are they covered under warranty?
• Safety Hazards:  Are there any potential safety hazards or dangerous conditions?
• Miscellaneous: Other items may or may not be included in a standard home inspection. Some of these may be septic systems, roofs, drainage problems, wood decks, patios or other exterior structures

In addition to a general home inspection, we recommend that you obtain the following inspections depending on the age of your house and where it is in DFW. For more personalized recommendations please contact us.

• Termite:  Does the home have any termites? Is there evidence of termite damage? The seller may provide a termite report which you need to review. Depending on the inspection company and the thoroughness of the report, you may want to get your own report for a second opinion.
• Geological or Land Subsidence Surveys: If the house is on a hillside and there is evidence of soil erosion or questions of the stability of the hillside, a soil inspection may be advisable. In addition the buyer may want a drainage expert to look at the site as well. Even on flat lots there can be drainage issues from hillsides nearby. If the property sits on a large lot and there is a question as to the boundary lines or the possibility of encroachments, you may want to get a land survey if the seller can’t supply one.