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Buying a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Before signing the papers, you want to be sure the property is safe, sound, and worth the price you’ve agreed to pay. That’s where a home inspection comes in. The right inspection gives you peace of mind and can help avoid costly surprises down the road. But who should you call, and how do you know they’re qualified?
Why a Home Inspection Matters
A home may look perfect during an open house, but an inspection can uncover problems that aren’t obvious at first glance. Issues like hidden water damage, outdated wiring, structural concerns, or foundation cracks often require a trained eye. An inspection doesn’t just protect your wallet; it also helps you negotiate repairs, request a credit at closing, or decide whether to walk away altogether.
Who Conducts Home Inspections?
In Massachusetts, home inspectors must be licensed by the state. They go through training and testing to ensure they can evaluate key aspects of a property. Here’s who you might call:
- Licensed Home Inspectors: These professionals provide a detailed report on the condition of the home, including systems, structure, and safety concerns.
- Specialty Inspectors: Depending on what the home inspector finds, you may also call in specialists such as pest inspectors, radon testing companies, or structural engineers.
- Local Real Estate Agents’ Referrals: Agents often know reputable inspectors in the area, though you should still do your own research to avoid conflicts of interest.
Choosing the Right Inspector
Not all inspectors offer the same level of service. When hiring, ask about:
- Licensing and Credentials: Verify they are licensed by the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure.
- Experience in the Local Market: Homes in Massachusetts face unique conditions like older heating systems, ice damming, or coastal humidity, so local experience matters.
- Sample Reports: A good inspector should provide clear, easy-to-understand reports with photos and detailed notes.
- Insurance: Confirm they carry liability and errors-and-omissions coverage.
What to Expect During an Inspection
A typical home inspection lasts two to four hours. The inspector will check:
- Structural elements such as the foundation, roof, and framing.
- Mechanical systems, such as plumbing, heating, and electrical.
- Interior and exterior features, from windows and doors to insulation and ventilation.
As the buyer, you should attend the inspection if possible. Walking through the home with the inspector allows you to ask questions in real time and better understand the condition of the property.
How Home Inspections Affect Your Purchase
The results of the inspection often shape the next steps in your home purchase. You may:
- Request that the seller make repairs.
- Ask for a price reduction or credit at closing.
- Decide to proceed as-is if the issues are minor.
- In some cases, withdraw from the purchase if serious concerns are found and your offer includes an inspection contingency.
Why Work With a Real Estate Attorney?
While an inspector provides a technical assessment of the property, a real estate attorney ensures the inspection results are properly addressed in your purchase agreement. At LaFountain & Wollman, P.C., we review your contract, advise you on negotiation options, and help protect your legal and financial interests throughout the process.
Taking the Right First Step
Calling a licensed home inspector is one of the smartest moves you can make when buying a new home in Massachusetts. It protects you from costly surprises and gives you leverage in negotiations. Once you have the inspection report, our attorneys can help you put that information to work.
If you’re purchasing a home, contact LaFountain & Wollman, P.C. today. We’ll guide you through every stage of the transaction and help you move forward with confidence.