2-Minute Reads

What Should You Ask Your Home Inspector?

Buying a home is a big deal, and a home inspection is your chance to get the inside scoop on the property you’re considering. Asking the right questions can help you better understand the home’s condition and give you confidence moving forward. Here are some smart questions to ask during or after your inspection:

1. What Are the Most Important Issues You Found?

This is a great starting point. A detailed inspection report can feel overwhelming, but your inspector can highlight the critical items that need attention right away.

2. Are These Issues Common for a Home This Age?

Older homes often come with wear and tear, but that doesn’t mean they’re a bad investment. Asking this question helps you put any findings into context.

3. Do I Need a Specialist for Any of These Problems?

Home inspectors are generalists, not specialists. If we identify something outside our scope—like a potential structural issue or a pest problem—we’ll recommend bringing in an expert for further evaluation.

4. What Maintenance Should I Plan for in the Next Few Years?

This question can help you prepare for future upkeep. Whether it’s replacing an aging water heater or keeping an eye on the roof, we can point out areas to monitor.

5. Are There Any Safety Concerns?

Safety always comes first. If we find something that could be a hazard—like faulty wiring or a gas leak—we’ll make sure you’re aware and understand the next steps.

6. Where Are the Main Shut-Offs Located?

Knowing where to shut off the water, gas, and electricity can be a lifesaver in an emergency. We’ll show you these key locations during the inspection.

7. How Do I Use or Maintain Certain Systems?

If you’re unsure about how something in the house works—like the HVAC system, water heater, or even quirky features like a sump pump—ask us for a quick overview. While we’re not here to give you a full tutorial, we’re happy to point out key maintenance tips and basic operations to get you started.

8. Would You Buy This Home?

We won’t say yes or no—that’s not our role. But if you ask this, you might get a chuckle and a few honest insights about the home’s condition. Instead, we’ll provide the facts and context you need to decide for yourself. After all, every buyer’s priorities are different!