Home Inspection

Most people wouldn’t consider purchasing a used car without having their mechanic give it the once over. Yet, everyday countless homebuyers commit to purchasing a home with very little knowledge about the property. They just hope for the best. When you consider that your home will probably be the single largest purchase you ever make, it only makes sense to have it carefully checked out.

Although still quite rare in Bermuda, a structural survey is a prudent step, certainly in older properties that have not been rewired or replumbed for many years, where termite damage is evident, or where the site may be steeply sloped. If you want to have the home properly inspected, your offer to purchase should contain the following clause. “This offer is subject to a professional building inspection that is satisfactory to the buyer and paid for by the buyer”. If the seller has nothing to hide, he/she will not fear having the home inspected. But if the seller balks at the requirement, that may be a warning flag to walk away from the deal. Your only risk is that the seller may find another buyer, who will not insist on the same level of due diligence.

Once you’ve gained agreement on this clause begin shopping for a qualified inspector. Take some care in determining which company will inspect your home. The Home Inspection industry remains unregulated. Any “handyman” can claim to be a Home Inspector. We recommend that you hire a professional engineering firm that conducts inspections based on a Standards of Practice statement, such as the one set forth by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Confirm that they carry errors and omissions insurance to protect them and you against overlooked problems.

The Home Inspector that you hire will undertake a thorough examination to ensure that you know everything you can about the home before you commit to buying it. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions during your purchase, and will let you know you of any maintenance or repairs that your new home may require.

Of course, there is no such thing as a perfect home. Home inspections routinely reveal small maintenance issues that should be resolved once you take ownership. You should expect to find some of these items in your report as well. The purpose of the inspection is to protect you against major deficiencies that could be financially devastating. If the inspection reveals these types of problems, you’ll have a way out of the deal. If you still want to proceed you can reopen negotiations with the home seller.

It’s always a good idea to attend the home inspection if possible. Many Inspectors encourage it and welcome the opportunity to familiarize you with the home. Some Inspectors will not only provide you with a complete written report regarding the condition of the property, but may also give you a maintenance manual that will help you to care for your home in the years ahead.

Most homes can be professionally inspected for around $1,500.00.