Don't Get Tunneled Vision: Why a Home Inspector Beats a Team of Trades

So you've found your dream home – congratulations! But before you sign on the dotted line and celebrate with celebratory housewarming pizza, there's a crucial step: the home inspection. You might be tempted to skip it and hire separate specialists like plumbers and electricians, but here's why a home inspector is the smarter (and more cost-effective) choice.

The Big Picture Advantage: A home inspector is trained in all systems when it comes to your home's health. They're trained to assess a wide range of systems, from the roof and foundation to the electrical and plumbing. This complete approach ensures you don't miss any hidden problems that could turn into costly repairs down the road.

Trained Eye vs. Specialist Scope: Sure, a plumber is an expert on pipes, but they might miss structural issues affecting the entire plumbing system like foundation settling that's causing cracks in the pipes. An inspector, however, is trained to identify these broader concerns and potential red flags. They can also spot potential safety hazards like faulty wiring or outdated electrical panels that a plumber wouldn't typically check for.

The Cost Conundrum: Hiring multiple specialists can add up quickly. A comprehensive home inspection is often a fixed cost, saving you money in the long run. Think of it as an investment that could uncover major issues before you buy, potentially leading to negotiations with the seller or saving you from a money pit. Consider the potential issues that a team of specialists might miss:

• Appliance Functionality: Unless you hire a dedicated appliance repair person, tradespeople are not likely to check your appliances. A home inspector can assess the overall condition and functionality of major appliances.

• Structural Integrity: Inspectors are trained to identify signs of structural problems like foundation cracks, sagging floors, or roof support issues, which a plumber or electrician wouldn't typically look for.

• Roof Inspection: While a roofer might be great at fixing leaks, or replacing shingles they might miss broader issues like the lifespan of the materials or potential ventilation problems. A home inspector can assess the overall roof condition and identify potential problems before they become major leaks.

• Outdoor Grading: Drainage issues around the foundation can lead to future water damage. An inspector will check the grading of the land around the house unless you are hiring someone to specifically look at the grading, this will go unchecked.

• Windows & Doors: Inspectors look for signs of wear and tear, potential drafts, and proper installation, while a window or door specialist might just focus on functionality.

So as you can see, hiring different tradespeople to look at every component of your home can end up getting pretty costly. You may miss the overall functionality of the home's systems since tradespeople are only seeing small pieces of your home.

The Power of the Report: A home inspection report is a detailed document outlining the inspector's findings. This becomes a valuable tool for you and your Realtor during negotiations. You can use it to request repairs from the seller, adjust your offer price, or prioritize future renovations based on the inspector's recommendations.

Focus on Specialists Later: Once you've closed the deal and have a home inspection report in hand, then it's a great time to bring in specific tradespeople. The inspector's report will give them a roadmap of potential issues to focus on, allowing them to provide more targeted and accurate estimates.

By choosing a home inspection, you gain peace of mind knowing you're getting a comprehensive picture of your potential new home's condition. It's a smart investment that can save you from unexpected headaches (and expenses) in the future. So, resist the urge to assemble your own inspection team – a qualified home inspector is your best bet for a smooth and informed home-buying journey.

For more information on how to choose the RIGHT inspector check out: https://justcalljoe.ca/the-ultimate-guide-on-home-inspections-with-just-call-joe-inspections-manitoba-and-saskatchewan-home-inspector