Is that really true? Facts & myths about home inspections.

Most people think that the state of Illinois closely regulates Home Inspectors & has strong standard operating procedures. You might be surprised…

Roofs are a big deal right?

• Home Inspectors are required to get ON roofs to inspect.  This is FALSE.  State standards do NOT require inspectors to get ON roofs. In fact it is perfectly acceptable to view a roof from the ground.  However, a good inspector uses binoculars, puts a ladder up to the edge for a visual, uses a pole camera or even a drone.  A really good inspector physically walks any roof that’s SAFE to get on since it’s still the best way to assess the condition of the roof.

Certainly attics & crawl spaces are included right?

• Home Inspectors are required to enter attics and crawl spaces.  This is FALSE.  Inspectors are merely required to look from the opening.  Note: some attics can be damaged if you walk on them and crawl spaces might be too small to access.  Rule of thumb is ALWAYS safety first.

Well, I want to know that the Viking range is in top notch condition!

• Home Inspectors are required to inspect kitchen appliances.  This is FALSE.  In realty, state standards do NOT require it, but good inspectors do it anyway.

What about those spots on the basement ceiling?

• Home Inspectors are required to look above ceiling tiles in finished basements.  This is FALSE.  Of course, good inspectors do it anyway.

That’s what insurance is for right?

• Home Inspectors are required to carry general liability insurance.  This is FALSE and TRUE.  Prior to January 2022, home inspectors are not required to carry ANY insurance.  As a result of industry advocacy, the IL Department of Licensing and Regulations will require home inspectors to carry $100,000 in general liability insurance as of January 2022.  Good inspectors have always carried insurance, and typically carry even higher liability levels.

Can’t wait until the inspection so we can negotiate down that sale price!

• The purpose of a home inspection is for a buyer to gain information to negotiate a lower price from the seller.  This is FALSE.  The Illinois state real estate contract states it is intended to ascertain the condition of the property at that specific time so the buyer is making an educated purchase decision.  The focus of the inspection is the major systems that pose major health and safety issues only and the contract actually prohibits buyers from asking for smaller items.  Unfortunately, in reality, buyers see the inspection as a chance to ask for all kinds of things.  A good inspector, along with a real estate agent, will correctly set the buyer’s expectation from the beginning.

Real estate transaction are an EMOTIONAL process!  And rightly so, it’s usually the most money any of us will ever spend.

Don’t get caught up!  Surround yourself with experienced professionals from the moment the idea to purchase enters your brain!  A lender, attorney, real estate agent and yes, inspector, can make the difference between a successful, relatively pleasant transaction and a horror show!

Women Belong is the ideal place to find each one of these professionals!

Kristin Marsden, Director of Communications, Dunsing Inspections.  Contact me at Kristin@Dunsing.com or schedule anytime at http://www.Dunsing.com

Content provided by Women Belong member Kristin Marsden