Posted by So you’ve found your dream home in Massachusetts and are ready to make an offer! Exciting times ahead. But before you finalize that purchase, it’s crucial to schedule a home inspection to evaluate the condition of the property and uncover any potential issues.
A home inspection can save you from expensive surprises down the road. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about home inspections in Massachusetts from choosing the right inspector to prepping for the big day. Let’s dive in!
What Exactly Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a detailed visual examination of both the interior and exterior of a home. The goal is to identify any material defects, safety hazards, or necessary repairs.
During the 2-4 hour inspection, a qualified home inspector will assess the condition of the home’s major systems and components. This includes the:
- Roof, chimney, gutters, and downspouts
- Exterior siding, windows, doors, decks, and porches
- Foundation and basement
- Electrical system and wiring
- Plumbing system and fixtures
- HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
- Attic insulation and ventilation
- Interior rooms, walls, floors, and ceilings
- Built-in appliances
- Garage and carport
The inspector will also check for signs of water intrusion, pest infestation, and other potential issues. At the end of the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed written report summarizing the condition of the home.
Why Get a Home Inspection in Massachusetts?
There are a few key reasons every buyer should get a home inspections in Massachusetts when purchasing property in Massachusetts:
Uncover Hidden Issues
Many problems are not visible to the untrained eye. A qualified inspector has the expertise to identify issues that you may miss on your own walk-throughs. This prevents unwelcome surprises after moving in.
Understand the True Condition
While real estate listings may accentuate the positives, an inspection provides an unbiased assessment of the home’s condition. You’ll gain insights on which systems or areas may require repairs or upgrades.
Inform Negotiations
If issues are uncovered, you can request that the seller make repairs or lower the purchase price to offset future repair costs. The inspection report adds objective data to these negotiations.
Meet Mortgage Requirements
Most lenders require a home inspection to ensure the property is sound collateral for your loan. so the report is a standard part of the buying process.
Bottom line—the investment is well worth it for the peace of mind and financial protection.
Massachusetts Home Inspection Laws and Requirements
Massachusetts home buyers and sellers should be aware of several state laws and requirements pertaining to real estate transactions:
- Timeframes: The home inspection must be completed prior to the closing date. The buyer has the right to inspect within 10 days of their accepted offer.
- Inspector Licensing: Massachusetts requires home inspectors to be licensed. Look for a MA license number starting with “HI” to ensure they are properly credentialed.
- Mandatory Disclosure: Sellers are legally required to disclose any known defects and complete a property condition disclosure form. Review this closely and follow up on any concerns.
- Inspection Contingency: Most Purchase and Sale Agreements contain a home inspection contingency giving you the option to negotiate repairs or even walk away based on inspection findings.
- Right To Re-Inspect: If repairs are made based on the inspection, MA law allows you to bring the same inspector back to evaluate the quality of repairs prior to closing.
Following these laws and requirements helps ensure the inspection process unfolds smoothly. Be sure to consult your real estate attorney with any questions.
How to Choose the Right Home Inspector in Massachusetts
Finding the best home inspector for your needs in Massachusetts takes a bit of research. Follow these tips:
Verify Credentials
Start by only considering licensed inspectors in MA. Confirm they have no history of disciplinary actions. Make sure any specialty certifications are up-to-date.
Look for Experience
Ask about years in the field and number of inspections completed. You want an inspector who has examined hundreds, or better yet thousands, of homes similar to yours.
Read Reviews
Check for reviews on Google and Yelp. Look for consistent positive feedback around an inspector’s thoroughness, communication skills, and professionalism.
Ask for Sample Reports
High quality reports include ample detail yet remain reader-friendly. Photos and charts are also useful. Review examples to get a feel for their inspecting style.
Compare Cost
Pricing can range from $300 – $500 based on location, size of home, and scope of inspection. Make sure to compare apples-to-apples when reviewing options.
Consider Specialties
Some inspectors have extra training for older homes, high-end finishes, or unique property types. Match specialties to your specific home.
Taking time to research inspectors on the front-end pays dividends when you need to thoroughly evaluate a prospective home.
What to Expect During a Massachusetts Home Inspection
The home inspection process generally follows a standard protocol:
Initial Consultation
The inspector will discuss your expectations, share what’s included, explain their process, and may ask for background on the home’s age and renovations.
Interior and Exterior Walk-Through
You’re encouraged to join as they assess the roof, foundation, siding, windows, and other structural components. They’ll gradually work through each room checking wiring, plumbing, appliances, ventilation, floors, walls, and more.
Systems Testing
Various systems will be activated to test functionality including the HVAC, water heater, sink/tub drains, appliance functions, electrical outlets, garbage disposal, and more.
Attic and Foundation Inspection
These often get special focus given their importance. The inspector will check for water intrusion, damage, or insulation issues in both areas.
Question Period
Speak up if you have any specific concerns or observe something questionable. They can dive deeper into potential trouble spots.
Post-Inspection Meeting
Immediately after, the inspector shares key findings, highlights any urgent issues, and provides recommendations for repairs. You can get initial questions answered.
Detailed Written Report
Generally within 24 hours, you’ll receive the full written assessment highlighting any suggested repairs, safety issues, or systems nearing end of lifespan.
Being present for the inspection yields extra insights into the home’s pros and cons while allowing you to get a feel for the inspector’s skills.
What to Do If Problems Are Found During the Massachusetts Home Inspection
So the inspection is complete, and problems were identified. What next? Here are some smart steps:
Review the Report Thoroughly
Make sure you understand all the findings, costs estimates, and recommended fixes. Ask your inspector to clarify anything that’s unclear.
Organize by Priority
Focus first on identifying any major safety issues or extremely costly repairs. Then look at which projects are necessary immediately versus in future.
Request Repairs or Credits from Seller
Choose repairs you’d like the seller to make prior to closing. Get quotes to justify repair credits you’d accept instead.
Consult Your Agent
Share the report with your agent to discuss the best approach to request repairs or credits for any findings. They can advise on typical seller concessions.
Adjust Offer Accordingly
If repairs aren’t possible or prudent, see if reducing your offer price to build in a repair budget makes sense. But don’t overreach.
With the right approach, you can move forward with eyes wide open about the home’s condition and a plan to address any fixes.