Common Questions About Needed Home Inspections
When buying a home, you'll want to have it properly inspected, even if this isn't required by your mortgage lender. An inspection can alert you to any hidden damage in the home, as well as to the presence of pests, mould, and asbestos so you'll be aware of needed repairs.
However, many persons who are new to the home buying experience may not realize how inspections works and what they include, and what to do if the inspector detects serious problems, especially the presence of asbestos. Note a few questions you might consider about inspections needed for your potential new home and what to do with their findings.
Will an inspector check for pests and mould?
An inspector may note obvious termite damage, such as half-eaten studs or holes in walls. However, they won't perform a thorough inspection for termite colonies. The same is true for mould; they may note mould damage to the home's framework, but they won't make a thorough check for mould behind walls. If you're concerned about a pest infestation or mould growth, arrange for separate inspections that look for these in particular.
Does the seller make repairs based on the inspection?
It's easy to think that a seller will make repairs that are needed according an inspection report, and especially if the home is found to contain asbestos. This actually isn't the case, as they're not legally obligated to fix the home according to the inspection report; they're also not legally obligated to remove asbestos in the home before selling.
What can be done about asbestos?
If you suspect a home has asbestos due to its age, arrange for a separate inspection for this substance, as standard building inspectors may not check for it in the attic and elsewhere. You also want to check for this substance if you're unsure of the quality or source of the building materials, as some off-brand manufacturers may not be so stringent about following laws that prohibit the use of asbestos.
If asbestos is found in the home, the house can still be very liveable, as asbestos can be cleaned so that the home is safe. A thorough cleaning of asbestos, or outright removing and replacing the old materials that contain asbestos, can mean that the home will actually be in better condition after this treatment. This process is usually much more affordable than you realize, so don't give up on a potential home purchase even if asbestos is found.
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