Why Get a Home Inspection in Virginia?
Getting a home inspection is highly recommended for all home buyers in Virginia. An independent home inspection gives buyers insight into the current quality and safety of a home prior to purchase. This allows buyers to make more informed decisions and potentially negotiate with sellers for repairs or credits.
Protect Your Investment
Purchasing a home is likely the largest investment you’ll ever make. While a home may look perfect on the surface, critical defects could be lurking out of sight. Certified home inspection Virginia protects buyers against expensive surprises down the road by identifying issues needing repair.
Gain Leverage in Negotiations
If an inspector discovers repairs needed, buyers can use this information to negotiate credits or require the seller to fix issues prior to closing. Without an inspection, buyers may be unaware of problems or unable to negotiate repairs.
Learn About the Home’s Systems
An inspection provides comprehensive information on the condition of the home’s major systems and components like the roof, foundation, electrical, heating and cooling, plumbing, and more. This insight helps buyers understand what shape these systems are in.
What Does a Home Inspection Cover in Virginia?
Home inspectors in Virginia visually examine the physical structure and key systems/components for defects, wear and tear, unsafe conditions and items needing repair. Standard home inspections typically include:
Interior Areas
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Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, cabinets, countertops
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Plumbing fixtures and piping
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Electrical systems
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Heating and cooling equipment
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Ventilation/insulation
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Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
Home Exterior
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Roof, flashings, gutters
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Siding, trim, paint
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Foundation, steps, porches
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Grading, drainage
Built-in Appliances
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Dishwasher, range, microwave, disposals
An inspection covers everything that will stay with the sale of the home. Items excluded are usually furniture and small portable appliances. Virginia home inspectors also do not test for mold, air quality, radon, and other environmental hazards in a standard inspection.
Key Elements of a Home Inspection Report
The home inspection report is extremely valuable for buyers to understand the current condition of the home. Quality inspection reports clearly identify all deficiencies discovered and provide recommendations to correct issues.
Overview of Home and Inspection Details
The report starts by specifying details like date, property address, buyer/seller names, attendees and basic home stats like year built and square footage.
Inspector Observations & Recommendations
Organized by area, the main report body provides the inspector’s findings on deficiencies/problems observed plus actionable suggestions to remedy issues. Photos typically supplement written details.
Summaries & Maintenance Advice
Inspection reports conclude with helpful summaries and general home maintenance recommendations relevant to the property. Buyers can reference these tips after taking ownership.
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost in Virginia?
Home inspection fees vary depending on factors like:
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Home size/number of bathrooms
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Age and complexity of systems
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Extent of inspection services needed
Typical fees range from $300 – $500+ for inspection of an average single family home between 2,000 – 3,000 square feet. Older or larger luxury homes often cost more. Rates usually don’t include additional testing for radon, mold and other hazards. Be wary of deals that seem too cheap, as you want an experienced professional conducting thorough inspections.
Payment
Most home inspectors require payment at time of service. Accepted payment options include cash, check or credit card. Some may offer small discounts for cash or check payments.
How to Choose the Best Home Inspector in Virginia
Not all home inspection services are equal. Make sure to carefully evaluate inspectors on these criteria:
Licensing
Virginia requires home inspectors to hold a valid license from the Board of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Always verify current licensure status online before hiring an inspector.
Experience/Education
Seek an inspector with 5+ years of experience inspecting homes similar to the property you’re purchasing. Confirm proper training credentials as well. Membership in the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) also indicates credible expertise.
Strong References
Ask inspectors to provide recent customer references and sample reports you can review. Follow up with references to inquire if they were satisfied customers who’d recommend the same inspector again.
Detailed Reports
Request a sample report to evaluate if deficiencies are explained thoroughly with actionable repair recommendations and supporting images where applicable.
Responsiveness
From initial quote request to answering questions during the inspection, you want an inspector who responds promptly via call, email or text. Lack of responsiveness is a red flag for poor service overall.
By vetting inspectors carefully on these criteria, home buyers can maximize their chances of identifying the right home inspection expert to meet their unique needs and budget.
Home Inspection Checklists to Use in Virginia
Utilizing a home inspection checklist helps buyers remember the many facets an inspector evaluates. Be sure to take your own notes on issues observed during your accompanied inspection as well. Useful checklists to reference include:
Overall Interior & Exterior Condition
Make note of visible damage, leaks, pest signs, rot, mold, odors or other red flags. Also check if updates like renovations were done with permits.
Heating & Cooling Equipment
Document unit age, type and last service date. Ensure devices turn on and emit proper temperatures.
Plumbing Fixtures & Piping
Run all faucets and fixtures checking for leaks, low pressure and drainage. Flush toilets to test operation and for leaks.
Electrical Systems
Note any knob and tube wiring or aluminum branches needing replacement. Test outlets and switches for functionality. Inspect condition of electrical panel and wiring.
Roof and Attic Structure
Look for damaged materials, leaks, evidence of poor drainage and ventilation issues promoting moisture and rot. Confirm attic insulation meets your needs.
These simple yet thorough checklists help buyers feel fully prepared to evaluate inspection findings with professionals before finalizing real estate transactions.
FAQs About Home Inspections in Virginia
Do I have to get an inspection before buying?
Virginia doesn’t legally require inspections, but they are strongly recommended. Waiving inspection contingencies could mean inheriting expensive hidden problems.
Can I attend the inspection?
Yes, you should attend to observe and ask the inspector questions in real-time. Some inspectors charge extra fees if buyers attend, so clarify policies when booking.
What if a problem is found?
Your purchase contract should include inspection contingency clauses allowing you to request the seller complete repairs, lower price or cancel sale entirely based on findings.
What if seller won’t negotiate repairs?
If unwilling to negotiate fixing serious issues found, you may decide to walk away if problems could mean safety issues or budget-busting repairs down the road.
Getting professional home inspections in Virginia remains one of the smartest investments buyers can make when purchasing real estate. Take time to hire the right inspector for your needs, thoroughly evaluate their findings and utilize discoveries to negotiate the best terms for your family prior to closing.