Many home buyers don’t have much experience with the inner workings of a house and those that do probably won’t subject the home to a thorough inspection. The home is made up of some fairly complex systems.

If I’m buying a house, some of the things I would want to know:

• What’s the condition of the roof?
• Is the plumbing galvanized steel?
• Is the electrical wiring dated?
• Is the attic ventilated and properly insulated?
• Does any part of the home contain recalled products?

The Home inspection is a heads-up to the home-buyer for anything that might need repair now or may need upgrading or replacement in the future. If you know the condition and age of your furnace or a/c you will more likely have an idea on when you are going to need to repair or replace it.

The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

Why can’t I do the inspection myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.