The report is the official record, but the inspection itself is where most buyers learn their house. Being there helps in ways a PDF can’t.
What you will learn
- Where the water, gas and electrical shutoffs are.
- How the heating, cooling and water heater work.
- Which findings the inspector considers serious and which are routine.
- The context behind photos: how big that crack really is, or how loud the furnace sounds.
How to be a good attendee
Inspectors work methodically. Let them work and save most questions for natural breaks, or for the end. Don’t climb on the roof or into the attic with them unless invited.
What to bring
- Your disclosures and any questions from them.
- A tape measure.
- A notebook or phone for photos of serial plates and shutoffs.
- Comfortable shoes.
The last hour
Most inspectors finish with a walkthrough of the main findings. If you can only attend part of the inspection, attend this. Ask:
- What are the three things you would fix first?
- Is anything here a safety issue?
- Which findings need a specialist?
- Is anything unusual for a house of this age?