Every property is unique, and while there has been a trend of buyers waiving their home inspections, we always recommend having a home inspection. Inspections not only help buyers identify any major issues in the property before committing to the purchase, they also are very helpful for teaching buyers about the ins and outs of the house. Here are our top things to look for at your home inspection: 

1. The roof

This is one of the most costly items in most homes to replace, so it’s important for your inspector to look at. Tree covered roofs tend to deteriorate faster than roofs in full sunlight, and most roofs in New England last about 20-30 years, on average.

2. The heating (and cooling) systems

Your inspector will test the heating system and central AC (if available) to make sure everything is working properly. An important question to find out is how often did the sellers have the HVAC system serviced. Annually is ideal!

3. The foundation and basement

Your inspector will look for cracks in the foundation, moisture in the basement, and any signs of instability. We have an awesome foundation specialist who can diagnose most foundation cracks through a simple photo texted to him, so if there’s ever a concern, please reach out and we’d be happy to introduce you.

5. The windows

Look for broken seals (you’ll see condensation in between the windows if they’re double-paned), cracks in the windows, and test to see how easily they open and close. 

6. The attic

If there’s an attic in the home, be sure the inspector goes up there to check it out. Sometimes, there will be a pull down ladder; others, it’s just a crawl space. Either way, you can learn a lot about a property by the condition of the attic. Is it dry or moist? Is it well insulated? Is there potential to finish it and make it living space?

7. The land

A good inspector will assess the land as well as the house itself. They’ll look at the grading to determine where water will runoff and pool. It’s important for the land to slope down, away from the house, to help you avoid water getting in.

8. The exterior

Your inspector will look at the siding to make sure it’s in good shape - no chipping paint, holes, or rot. They’ll check the driveway for cracks, look at the front steps for cracks and potential pulling away from the house, and they’ll inspect the deck and all railings for stability. 

9. Radon

We always recommend a radon test, as radon is a very dangerous odorless, colorless gas that’s naturally occurring and common throughout New England. Your inspector can set up a radon test for you and thankfully, if the results are too high, remediation is very simple and not expensive. 

10. Private water and/or septic system

If the property has a well, be sure to do a water quality and quantity test. If there’s a septic system, the sellers most often handle the inspection there. One less thing for you to worry about!