It's not just about getting an inspection, it's about having the right inspector.

Having your home inspected before buying is one of the most valuable things you can do. It could alert you of potential dangers and issues that only a trained inspector with the proper training and equipment can recognize.

What are the different types of inspections when purchasing a property?

At what point in the process do we have an inspection done?

How much are the inspections going to cost? 

Home & Septic/Sewer Line

These are the 2 most commonly used inspections when buying a home

Home Building Inspection

This is a non-invasive examination of the condition of the home. The right inspector with the right tools will be able to inform you of any latent defects that are not easily identifiable as well as confirm the ones we may have already noticed.
From the foundation to the roof and everything in between will be considered and examined in this inspection which is why it is so important to ensure that you know exactly what you're buying and how much work may be involved if the home isn't quite up to standard.

Septic / Sewer Line Inspection

If there are issues with septic systems or sewer lines it can lead to major issues with the home and/or the property with the cost to fix the issue(s) adding up quick.
This is why it is so important to know exactly what shape it is in before you purchase the property and to have a proper inspection performed.
The inspector will look at the condition of sewer pipes, the tank, and the type of field if applicable. They will be able to educate you on any issues that may arise and recommend the possible ways to fix said issues.

Other Types of Inspections & Tests

When purchasing a property it is important to know what all inspections you are looking to have done.
Not all will be applicable to your purchase so it is vital to speak to your Real Estate Agent to know exactly which inspections are available and which ones they can suggest to have completed.

Water Test

There are different versions of a water test that can be performed depending on how extensive you want to test the water. When buying a home that is on a well this is important for identifying possible contaminants that could be in the drinking water.
These can include, but are not limited to;
bacteria, copper, iron, lead, nitrates, chlorine, PH, and the hardness of the water.

Water Flow Test

This is a test that is perform to examine the condition of your well whether it is dug or drilled.
This will inform us on how much water the well holds and how quickly it replenishes the water.
Sometimes this may indicate that deeper well is needed to support the amount of people living in the home or that a new well is needed due to the condition of the exiting one.

Radon Gas Test

Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas that can cause all kinds of health issues, including lung cancer if you are exposed to it for long periods of time.
Radon gas is inert, colorless and odorless. Radon is naturally in the atmosphere and comes from the ground. Outdoors, radon disperses rapidly and, generally, is not a health issue.
Inside your home however, radon can enter through pipes, cracks in the foundation, etc. and become trapped in your home if not properly dealt with.

Perc Test

A perc test determines how long it takes for the soil to drain moisture added to the ground. Perc tests are often important for any vacant property that will utilize a septic system, as perc tests can help determine the best place to install a drain, leach field, or other septic system elements.

Electrical Inspection

A home inspector will likely be able to determine the approximate age and condition of the electrical in the home as well as possible concerns. However, if they notice concerns that they feel are above their qualifications and require a more in depth inspection, they may suggest having an electrician in the home to inspect the electrical more thoroughly prior to purchasing.

Soil Testing

Depending on what you are purchasing the property for, a soil test may be a good idea to indicate how effectively the soil can grow crops but more importantly the specific crop that you're looking to farm.
Different crops require different nutrients and micronutrients to prosper and this test will tell you what the residual level is and what will need to be added to the soil as fertilizer for optimal harvests.

WETT Certification & Chimney Inspection

All wood stoves inside a home should be WETT Certified for insurance purposes. A WETT inspection will look at the hearth, firebox, chimney, etc. in order to ensure that everything about the heating source is working properly, safe to use, and up to code.

Property Survey

A property survey will determine the boundaries of your property. This will be conveyed in a legal document and is important if your plans involve erecting any type of building or structure on the property.
Title Insurance is an alternative to having the property surveyed when buying a home. It is an insurance that protects you against any issues or loss related to the title or ownership of the property.

Document Inspection & Review

When purchasing a home or property, it is crucial to have the documents pertaining to the property inspected and reviewed by a lawyer. They will be able to look for any issues in the paperwork, encumbrances or easements on the property, restricted covenants, and ensure that you are completely aware of all aspects that may impact you in the future relating to the property so that you can move forward with confidence in what you're purchasing.