HOME INSPECTIONS
What Happens During
a Home Inspection?
You found a house, your offer was accepted, and now somebody is about to spend a few hours looking at everything you probably forgot existed.
That is a good thing. The inspection gives you more information about the home so you can better understand what you are buying before moving forward.
LET’S BREAK IT DOWN ↓
A LITTLE REAL TALK FROM BRO
Every house has something.
The question is not whether an inspector finds anything. The question is what they find, how significant it is, and what it may mean for you.
THE INSPECTION PROCESS
01
INSPECTION
02
REPORT
03
REVIEW
04
NEXT STEPS
FIRST THINGS FIRST
What Is the Inspector Actually Doing?
A home inspection is a visual evaluation of accessible parts of the property. The inspector looks at major systems and components, documents observations, and provides a report that helps you better understand the condition of the home.
01
Look
The inspector visually examines accessible systems, surfaces, and components throughout the home.
02
Document
Findings are typically documented with notes, descriptions, and often photographs in an inspection report.
03
Explain
The report gives you information to discuss with your inspector, agent, and other appropriate professionals before deciding what comes next.
AROUND THE HOUSE
What Does a Home Inspector Usually Look At?
The exact scope depends on the inspector, property, and circumstances, but these are some of the major areas buyers commonly see addressed.
EXTERIOR
Roof & Exterior
Roofing materials, exterior surfaces, drainage, visible flashing, windows, doors, and other accessible exterior components.
STRUCTURE
Foundation & Structure
Visible structural components and signs that may warrant additional evaluation.
PLUMBING
Plumbing
Visible piping, fixtures, drainage, water flow, and other accessible plumbing-related components.
ELECTRICAL
Electrical
Accessible electrical panels, outlets, fixtures, and visible wiring conditions.
COMFORT
Heating & Cooling
Accessible HVAC equipment, visible components, and basic operation where applicable.
INTERIOR
Interior Areas
Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, stairs, and other accessible interior components.
ABOVE & BELOW
Attic & Crawlspace
Accessible attic, crawlspace, insulation, ventilation, moisture conditions, and visible structural components.
OTHER ITEMS
Built-In Components
Depending on the inspector and scope, built-in appliances and other installed components may also be checked for basic operation.
IMPORTANT DISTINCTION
An Inspection Is Not a Pass-or-Fail Test.
Houses are complicated. An inspection is meant to give you information, not stamp the property with a giant green checkmark or red X.
NOT A WARRANTY
It Cannot Predict the Future.
A home inspection reflects observable conditions at the time of the inspection. It cannot guarantee that something will never fail later.
NOT EVERYTHING
It Is Not Destructive Testing.
Inspectors generally evaluate accessible areas. They are not typically opening walls, removing floors, or taking the house apart to see what is hidden.
NOT A SHOPPING LIST
Every Finding Does Not Automatically Mean a Repair Request.
The report may include minor maintenance items, larger concerns, and everything in between. The important part is understanding which findings actually matter for your decision.
BRO’S REAL TALK
Do Not Panic at a 40-Page Inspection Report.
Inspectors document things. That is literally their job. A long report does not automatically mean the house is falling apart. We look at the findings, identify what deserves attention, and figure out what the information means for your transaction.
AFTER THE INSPECTION
Okay, We Have the Report. Now What?
This is where the inspection becomes useful. Instead of just seeing a giant list of observations, you start looking at what those findings mean.
01
Review the Findings
Read the report and ask questions about anything you do not understand.
02
Separate Big From Small
Cosmetic items and routine maintenance are very different from concerns involving safety, structure, major systems, or significant expense.
03
Discuss Your Options
What options are available depends on your contract, timing, inspection findings, and individual transaction.
04
Decide What Makes Sense
The goal is not to create a perfect house. It is to make an informed decision about whether the home and transaction still make sense for you.
BUYERS ALWAYS ASK
Home Inspection Questions
If you are wondering about one of these, you are in very good company.
Should I attend the inspection?
Ask your inspector and agent about the process. Being present for at least part of the inspection may give you an opportunity to learn more about the home.
How long does an inspection take?
Timing varies based on the property, size, condition, inspector, and scope of the inspection.
What if they find something major?
Significant findings deserve a closer look. Depending on the issue, additional evaluation by an appropriate specialist may be recommended.
Does the seller have to fix everything?
Not automatically. Seller obligations and buyer options depend on the contract, negotiations, findings, and circumstances of the transaction.
Can I walk away after an inspection?
Your options depend on the terms and deadlines in your purchase agreement. This is why understanding your contract and acting within required timelines matters.
What if the house is older?
Older does not automatically mean bad. The focus is the condition of the home, its systems, and whether the findings make sense for your plans and budget.
FOUND THE HOUSE?
Let’s Make Sure You Understand What You’re Buying.
READY WHEN YOU ARE
You Do Not Have to Decode the Inspection Report Alone.
Charissa can help you understand how the inspection fits into the bigger picture of your transaction, what questions to ask, and what comes next.
ASK BRO →
This page is provided for general educational purposes. Inspection scope, findings, buyer options, seller obligations, contractual rights, and deadlines vary by property, inspector, purchase agreement, and transaction. Consult your inspector, real estate professional, attorney, and other appropriate professionals regarding your individual situation.