Questions to Ask During Home Inspection

Before hiring a home inspector, everyone asks about their license, experience, cost range, etc. But have you thought about the questions to ask during home inspection?

If yes (or even no), you’re in luck. In this blog post, we’ve gathered a list of questions to ask during home inspection to ensure a smart purchase. Shall we begin?

List of Questions to Ask During Home Inspection

The following questions will help you clarify concerns and ensure you understand the findings:

 

1. Can you explain what you mean by [specific term or issue]?

When accompanying the inspector, they will talk to you and point out their findings. And if you didn’t catch on some part, don’t think: “I’m gonna read about that in the written report”.

Written reports can be misinterpreted, and immediate explanation prevents misunderstandings. So, feel free to ask for more clarification on any terminology, the severity of the issue, and potential implications on the spot.

 

2. How serious is this [specific finding]?

When the inspector points out an issue, always ask about how serious it is; and what's its potential impact on the property's value, functionality, and safety.

The answer, which will be a direct assessment of the issue's significance, helps you estimate the cost of repairs and whether the problem is a deal-breaker.

 

3. What are the repair options for [specific finding]?

Continuing the list of questions to ask during home inspection, this is another one to keep in mind. If there’s an issue, you can ask the inspector about repair options and whether there are any cost-effective solutions (such as DIYs).

This allows you to have a better grasp of potential expenses, budget for repairs, and leverage it when negotiating the price with the seller.

 

4. How’s the condition of the [specifis system or structure]?

Never skip this one when considering what to ask about during home inspection. This includes asking about the condition of:

• Plumbing
• Electrical system
• HVAC systems
• Foundation and structure
• Roof
• House insulation (attic, walls, windows, etc.)
• Furnace
• Boiler
• Irrigation systems
• Drainage and
• Sewage

*When asking about plumbing and electrical systems, make sure that they are up to code too, as premierottawa reminds too.

However, you can improve it to get a more useful response. For example, you could ask:

• “Can you describe the condition of the […], including any areas of concern?” This is better because it explicitly asks for both positive and negative aspects, avoiding a simple "good" or "bad" response.
• "What is your assessment of the […]'s condition? What is its estimated remaining lifespan?" This question gives you the practicality of the system's longevity, especially the major ones like the roof or plumbing.
• "How would you rate the condition of the […] on a scale of 1 to 5? What factors contributed to that rating?" This way you’ll receive a quantifiable response, making it easier to compare different aspects of the house.

 

5. Can you show me where this [specific finding] is located?

If possible, this should be among your questions to ask during home inspection as well. Seeing the problem firsthand offers better context and understanding, ensuring you and the inspector are both on the same page about the location and extent of the issue.

 

6. What are some common issues with homes of this age, style, and region?

This provides valuable insights beyond the specific findings and helps you understand potential maintenance needs. You’ll also be informed about regional considerations and challenges, like snow loads in colder areas or humidity issues in coastal regions.

 

7. How do I maintain [specifis system or feature]?

This new house may have features and/or systems that you’ve never owned. If so, what to ask about during home inspection in this case? Here are some ideas:

• What is a recommended maintenance schedule for the […]?
• What are preventative measures I can take? How can I identify potential problems early?
• Are there any maintenance tasks I can do myself, or should I leave it to a professional?
• Can you recommend any local resources for professional maintenance?
• Are there any warranties or guarantees on the systems or appliances?

 

8. Are there any modifications or renovations?

Ask if any modifications or renovations have been made to the house. Also, find out about their quality and whether they're following current building codes.

Depending on the modifications, you may want to ask about their effect on energy efficiency and potential risks.

 

9. Are there any signs of current or previous water damage?

This one was probably already on your list. If the answer was yes, ask for more details on the exact location, extent, and apparent causes. As well as how to repair and prevent it in the future.

 

1. Did you find any evidence of pest infestation (insects, rodents, etc.)?

Make sure to include this in your list of questions to ask during home inspection, and conditions that encourage infestations (e.g., cracks, moisture problems). More information will allow you to decide whether it will be worth a repair or not.

 

11. Would you buy this house if you were in my position?

Here’s the ultimate question, and if you’re working with a reliable pro, you’ll have a definitive answer. Knowing the inspector’s professional opinion and their biggest concerns gives you invaluable insights for a well-informed decision.

 

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Any of these questions can affect and even change your house-buying journey completely, as long as the answers are clear, honest, and professional.

Are you looking for home inspectors who can provide reliable answers? Houmse is here to connect you to the best professionals in your region.