Introduction
When it comes time to buy a new home in Detroit, having an experienced and thorough home inspector examine the property first is crucial. Choosing one of Detroit’s top home inspection companies will provide you with an expert evaluation of the home’s condition, enabling you to make an informed decision and avoid expensive surprises down the road. Here’s an overview of how home inspections work and a look at some of Detroit’s highest rated and most trusted home inspection services.
The Home Inspection Process
A home inspection is a detailed visual examination of both the interior and exterior of a house. The inspection covers the condition of the home’s major systems and components such as the roof, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling systems, foundation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, insulation and ventilation.
The home inspector will methodically go through the property, operating equipment, testing outlets, looking for any signs of defects, wear and tear, or potential issues. The inspection usually takes two to three hours for an average single family home.
The inspector will provide a written report that summarizes the condition of the home and identifies any repairs that may be recommended. As a buyer, this professional opinion is invaluable in understanding any existing or potential problems with the home prior to purchase.
Choosing a Home Inspector in Detroit
When selecting Detroit Home inspectors you want someone who is experienced, thorough and detail-oriented. Look for an inspector who has been working in the field for several years and has conducted hundreds of inspections in Detroit homes. They should be licensed and insured. Membership in a professional home inspection association demonstrates a commitment to ongoing training and adherence to industry standards.
Check online reviews and ask for referrals from recent customers. How responsive, reliable and personable was the inspector? Communication skills matter too. A good home inspector will take the time to explain their process and findings and answer any questions you may have.
Top-Rated Home Inspection Services in Detroit
Here are a few of Detroit’s highest rated home inspection services to consider if you’re looking to buy a home in the area:
- Precision Home Inspection
With almost 15 years of experience inspecting Detroit area properties, Precision Home Inspection delivers extremely detailed and comprehensive home reports. The owner is actively involved in every inspection and provides a level of analysis that identifies issues other inspectors may miss. Their inspections are backed by a certified residential real estate inspection guarantee for additional peace of mind.
- Homespex Home Inspections
Family-owned and operated, Homespex takes pride in going above and beyond the typical home inspection. Their personable inspectors take the time to explain systems, point out issues and answer questions during the inspection. Their reports even include photos and videos to clearly document their findings. Homespex has a perfect 5-star rating across platforms like Google and Guildquality.
- Honest Home Inspection
As their name suggests, Honest Home Inspection provides straightforward, unbiased assessments of home conditions. Their inspectors have a minimum of 10 years experience and are all fully certified and insured. Customers rave about their level of detail, clear communication style and value for the cost. You can trust them to conduct an inspection that leaves no stone unturned.
- HouseMaster Home Inspections
With HouseMaster, you benefit from their comprehensive six systems check inspection process. Their trained inspectors use cutting-edge tools like infrared cameras to detect hidden moisture issues. HouseMaster also offers a range of additional specialty inspections including mold testing, pool inspection, and radon testing. Their home office support team ensures fast report turnaround.
- AmeriSpec Inspection Services
Available seven days a week, AmeriSpec has over 15 local inspectors to meet the busy schedules of home buyers in Detroit. Their computerized reporting system allows them to provide very fast turnaround on detailed inspection reports. AmeriSpec puts a strong emphasis on inspector training and utilizes robust checklists to ensure consistency across inspections.
What to Expect in a Home Inspection Report
A home inspection report provides documentation of the property’s condition at the time of inspection. Expect an average of 20-30 pages detailing the condition of the home’s major components such as:
- Exterior: Roof, gutters, siding, windows, doors, decks, drainage and grading
- Structure/Foundation: Walls, floors, ceilings, basement/crawlspace
- Electrical: Main panel, wiring, outlets, switches, fixtures
- Plumbing: Pipes, water pressure, water heaters, drainage, sump pumps
- Heating/Cooling: Furnace, AC, ductwork, filters, thermostats
- Attic: Insulation, ventilation, moisture
- Garage: Walls, roof, doors, openers
- Kitchen/Appliances: Cabinets, sinks, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher
- Bathrooms: Fixtures, ventilation, drainage
- Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, fireplaces
Photos will document any visible damage, wear and safety issues. Recommended repairs will be listed with an approximate cost for any larger projects. While an inspection report provides helpful information on a home’s physical condition, it is not technically a pass or fail assessment. The buyer determines their own risk tolerance for identified defects and negotiates repairs accordingly.
In summary, partnering with one of Detroit’s top rated home inspection services allows buyers to make a confident and informed decision about a property. Taking this due diligence step at the start of the home buying process prevents unpleasant and costly surprises down the road. Do your research to find knowledgeable local home inspectors who offer the depth of inspection, communication and responsive support you need. With the right home inspection in hand, you can proceed with your Detroit area real estate purchase knowing the true condition of your new home investment.
