We know that it can be intimidating to read any large technical document and a home inspection report is no exception. The home inspection report is the only tangible item that will remain when the inspection is complete and it is what you will base your decision on whether or not to go ahead with the purchase of your future home. Watch our column as we share 5 tips on how to get the most out of your inspection report!

1. Know your definitions
Throughout an inspector’s report, you will find items that have been prioritized for action. It is important to understand what they mean. Make sure you are familiar with each definition related to each level of urgency.

2. Pay attention to the inspector’s remarks and comments
Carefully review the summary section of the report to get an idea of what the inspector has identified as high priority. As you go through the report, be sure to read the inspector’s comments, if any. The comments may include evidence to support their findings, recommendations for next steps, or even background information that may be helpful to know.

3. Remember that home inspections have limitations
Any professional inspection firm will have a contract that you must read and sign. This agreement will specify the details of the mandate and the limits of the service. The purpose of the inspection is to put a buyer in a better position to make a purchase decision, but an inspector cannot eliminate all risks. Not all improvements will be identified during an inspection. Unexpected repairs may still occur.

4. Feel free to ask questions and discuss
Our goal is for you to have more knowledge about your investment than you anticipated, so you can feel confident moving forward. Feel free to ask any questions you may have about the report. Your inspector is an invaluable resource. His or her experience, training and extensive knowledge will allow him or her to write an unbiased and informed report on the condition of the house and will be able to enlighten you if needed.

5. Demand to see a sample of the inspection report
As mentioned at the outset, the report is the only tangible item you will have in your possession when the inspection is complete. Your decision to proceed or not with your real estate transaction rests on it. Don’t be embarrassed to ask to see a sample of the inspection report that will be given to you following the inspection. If the inspector in question refuses to give you a sample inspection report, seriously question whether or not you should proceed with his services…

When looking for the right home inspector, it is important to find someone you can trust! We invite you to download our free inspector selection criteria grid available on our website and do not hesitate to contact us to see our sample home inspection report.