Step 16: Tips for attending the home inspection

As the Buyer you’re able to attend all the inspections which you’d like to schedule, but most Buyers usually only attend the general inspection. Most of the time a general inspection takes about 2-3 hours but can vary depending on the size of the property, age of the property, and its condition. However, you don’t have to be there the whole time. In fact, most home inspectors usually do their best work inspecting the property when they’re able to focus their attention fully on the home.

Therefore, we actually suggest that most Buyers either not attend the entirety of the inspection or spend the time looking at other aspects of the property away from the inspector. However, DEFINITELY communicate any specific requests, concerns about the property, or questions regarding the scope of the inspection up front prior to the inspection. That way the inspector can be on the lookout during the inspection for your specific concerns. If you are in attendance at the inspection this is a good time to take measurements for furniture and review any other details not covered by the inspector like cosmetic issues.

We do recommend showing up towards the last 30 minutes or so of the inspection. It’s at this time when the inspector will go over the findings and show you pictures of any issues found or physically point out any areas of concern. Being there in person at the end allows you to ask any specific questions of the inspector and better prepares you for the next step of repair requests when you’re more informed about what the issues actually are. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions or for clarification of issues if you aren’t clear about ANYTHING.

Next: Read the inspection report