Understanding Your Home Inspection Report: Essential Tips for Homebuyers

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments buyers can make. A home inspection report can feel overwhelming with its technical language and detailed findings. Yet, understanding this report is crucial to making informed decisions and avoiding costly surprises. I am providing this guide in the hopes to help break down the key parts of a home inspection report and offer practical tips to help buyers and realtors navigate it confidently.

What Is a Home Inspection Report?

A home inspection report is a detailed document prepared by a certified home inspector after evaluating the condition of residential property. It covers major systems and components such as the roof, plumbing, electrical wiring, heating and cooling, foundation, and more. The report highlights defects, safety concerns, and maintenance issues.

This report is not a guarantee or warranty but a snapshot of the home’s condition at the time of inspection. It helps buyers understand potential repairs and negotiate with sellers.

Our reports also come with a clickable contents tab page to quickly jump to any particular section

What is included?

• Exterior components- Doors, windows, siding, property drainage, decks & patios, eaves

• Roof- Roofing conditions, any damaged or missing shingles, flashings, and roof penetrations, gutters

• Attic- Framing, any potential roof leaks, insulation, and ventilation

• Structure

• Interior- Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, bathrooms, and stairways are all inspected for damage, issues, or safety issues.

• Plumbing- Water heater, supply lines, drain lines, fixtures

• Electrical- Panels, visible wiring, outlets, and fixtures

• HVAC systems- operation and condition of heating and coolings systems and duct work

• Safety features- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are inspected to ensure they are present and functional.

Summary of findings

I provide a brief overview of the more important issues on one of the top pages of report. These issues can include major defects, expensive repairs, or safety concerns. This helps homeowners quickly understand the critical points without reading the entire report. Although it is important to read through the entire report to understand the full condition of the property.

How to Read the Report Effectively

Focus on Major Systems First

• Roofing- I walk every roof that is safely possible, to inspect shingles or roof covering conditions, flashings, chimneys, vents, any roof penetrations, and gutter system.

• Structure- The foundation, walls, floors, ceilings, crawlspace, and roof structure. I inspect for cracks, water damage, or any signs of potential movement.

• Heating & Cooling (HVAC)- The conditions and operation of any furnace(s), air conditioning system(s), and duct work are thoroughly inspected.

• Plumbing system(s)- I inspect the water heater condition, water lines and drain lines for any potential leaks, condition of materials, water pressure is measured, any potential drainage issues.

• Electrical system(s)- I inspect electrical panels, any visible wiring, fixtures, and outlets. Safety is top priority.

Understand the Terminology

Inspection reports use specific terms to describe issues:

• Deficiency: Something that does not meet current standards or needs repair.

• Safety Hazard: A condition that could cause injury or harm.

• Maintenance Item: Routine upkeep needed to keep systems working well.

• Recommend Evaluation & repair: Suggests further inspection by a specialist.

  
  

Knowing these terms helps you prioritize what needs immediate attention.

Pay Attention to Photos and Diagrams

Many reports include photos or diagrams illustrating problem areas. These visuals clarify the inspector’s notes and help you see the exact location and severity of issues.

Common Red Flags to Watch For

Roof Problems

Look for signs of missing shingles, leaks, or damaged flashing. Roof repairs can be costly, and a damaged roof may lead to water intrusion and mold.

Electrical Issues

Check for outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, open wire splices and junction boxes, or missing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in wet areas. These issues pose fire hazards and may require rewiring.

Plumbing Concerns

Leaks, corrosion, or slow drainage indicate plumbing problems. Inspect water heaters and sump pumps for proper function.

Foundation and Structural Defects

Cracks in the foundation, uneven floors, or doors that don’t close properly suggest structural movement. These can be expensive to fix and affect the home’s stability.

Mold, mildew, microbial growth, and Moisture

Look for signs of water damage, musty odors, or visible mold. Moisture problems can cause health issues and damage building materials.

How to Use the Report in Your Home buying Process

Discuss Findings with Your Real Estate Agent

Share the report with your agent to understand which issues are potential deal-breakers and which can be negotiated. Your agent can help you request repairs or price reductions based on the inspection.

Get Estimates for Repairs

For major defects, obtain quotes from licensed contractors. Knowing repair costs helps you decide whether to proceed with the purchase or walk away.

Consider a Specialist Inspection

If the report recommends further evaluation, hire a specialist such as a structural engineer, electrician, or plumber. Their detailed assessment can uncover hidden problems.

Prioritize Safety issues

Focus on fixing safety hazards first. These include faulty wiring, gas leaks, or unstable structures. Addressing these issues protects your family and ensures compliance with local laws.

Tips for Homebuyers to Stay Prepared

• Attend the Inspection: Being present during the inspection lets you ask questions and see issues firsthand. We recommend buyer comes towards the end of inspection to walk through all the findings at once

• Take Notes and Photos: Document concerns to discuss later with your agent or contractors.

• Don’t Ignore Minor Issues: Small maintenance items can become bigger problems if neglected.

• Use the Report as a Negotiation Tool: Sellers may agree to fix problems or lower the price based on the inspection.

• Plan for Future Maintenance: The report can guide your home maintenance schedule to keep the property in good shape.

Call Risley Home Inspections today to inspect before you buy, to ensure you won't have any hidden surprises after moving into your new home!

317-605-5885

risleyhomeinspect@gmail.com

www.risleyhomeinspections.com