When there is something visibly wrong with a home, such as roof damage or a light that does not come on, or some water damage, or a broken window, it is easy for these items to be identified. But, what about something that should be in the home, but isn’t there. Would you or your uncle know that it is supposed to be there? Are you or your uncle going to crawl around underneath the home if it is on a pier-and-beam foundation? Are you going to walk through the attic or on the roof? Do you know about combustion air, attic ventilation, required electrical breaker sizes, plumbing vents, roof flashing, etc? The point is that you, a family member or friend may be able to do perhaps 50% of what a licensed home inspector can do. Are you willing to take a chance on the other 50%?
In summary, I believe that it is in your best interest to hire an experienced, licensed home inspector to work on your behalf. Sure, it will cost you a few hundred dollars, but that is a very small amount when compared to the cost of the home. Also, it will likely save you at least that much in repairs as items that are found during the inspection can then possibly be negotiated to be repaired by the current homeowner before you purchase the home. Even if few or no deficient items are found during the inspection, it will give you peace of mind by knowing that the home that you are purchasing is in good condition.
© 2022 Mike Morgan
This article was written by Mike Morgan, the owner of Morgan Inspection Services. Morgan Inspection Services has been providing home, septic and well inspection services throughout the central Texas area since 2002. He can be reached at 325-998-4663 or at mike@morganinspectionservices.com. No article, or portion thereof, may be reproduced or copied without prior written consent of Mike Morgan.