Home inspection for resale homes: what to expect

On a resale home, an inspection is your best protection against expensive surprises.

When it happens

Usually as a condition in your offer (often 5 business days), or before offer night as a pre-inspection in a competitive market.

What the inspector checks

• Roof, gutters and grading
• Foundation and basement: cracks, moisture, past water
• Electrical: panel, wiring type, grounding
• Plumbing: supply lines, drains, water heater
• Heating and cooling: furnace age, air conditioner
• Windows, doors, insulation and attic

What it cannot tell you

Hidden problems behind walls, the inside of the sewer line (book a sewer scope for older homes), or the condition of systems that are off-season.

Using the report

• Small items are normal; focus on safety and big-ticket items.
• Get quotes for major repairs.
• Negotiate a price reduction or credit, or ask the seller to repair before closing.

New homes are different

Brand-new homes come with the Tarion warranty and a pre-delivery inspection instead.

Book a call with Dinesh.