As the name implies; inspecting a real estate property is a thorough and extensive evaluation and is usually conducted in the event that the real estate property in question is on the market. Typically done by the party that is looking to buy the house, it is an inexpensive technique to discovering the actual state of the place. From the buyer’s point of view, it allows him or her to gain a clear understanding on what he is going to pay for.

To begin with, property inspections are done by certified and qualified home inspectors who have the competency to examine and give a report on the shape of the house. They also let the buyer know if the house is worth the money being demanded. There are numerous times where a house looks prim and well maintained on the outside but has a range of issues underneath all the fancy paint jobs and re touches. A home inspector checks critical things like the state of the plumbing system and the condition of the roof.

The first step of home inspections is the general inspection. At this point things like the ventilation and the heater, the air conditioning system and other major appliances and systems are examined for issues. The home inspector turns in a report with his findings and if there are any aspects that require maintenance and should be improved on. Reports like this will bring major issues that are costly to repair to the buyers’ attention and puts him in a strong position when it comes to the business end of the deal at the negotiating table. This stage also tells him if the deal is good or if he should pass it on.

The secondary procedure is where inspections are done for pests and other harmful creatures in the property or the vicinity. This includes home wrecking pests like termites, silverfish and other wood eating pests.

There is also another stage of the inspections. During this stage, tests are done to identify the presence of harmful gases like radon. It is a radioactive gas that is caused by the disintegration of radium and has a tendency to collect in areas like attics and other cramped up locations. Not all home inspectors conduct radon tests so it would be a wise move to check ahead with the home inspector before hiring him. For houses with well water, tests should be done on the water to decide the cleanliness of the water for usage. Septic tank testing is also a check that should not be avoided and is generally done towards the end.