Does your state or region require home inspections?

Is a home inspection necessary? Did someone ever ask that question or am I just dreaming? Why would someone not conduct a home inspection? Is it because they are not required by law? Is it because the buyer wants to save his money? Is it because Uncle or Dad knows all about construction and can give their opinion?

Home inspections are not required in the state of Kentucky when purchasing a home. Therefore, I am often ask a series of questions about the home inspection. The dialog usually goes something like this.

Question #1: "Do you think the home inspection is really necessary"?

My Answer: "You bet".

Question #2: "Do you think I really need a professional"?

My answer: "You bet".

Question #3: "Do you think there is anything wrong with the home that the seller didn't disclose"?

My answer: "You bet". (Do you see mold in the picture?)

After many years in the real estate business in Kentucky, I know that Uncle or Dad do not have the experience necessary to do a thorough home inspection for the buyer. As good as their intentions are for their family, it may cause much costly grief later. Let Uncle of Dad come and discuss the inspection with the professional, but do let a professional conduct the inspection.

Does the seller ever forget to disclose something? I know they have and will. As an example, I have lived in my home for over 20 years and when it was built the basement door bell was never connected to any wiring. Therefore. you can push that button all day, but I would never hear a ring and know that you were at my door. It has been this way for a long time and if I sold my home today, I would probably forget to disclose that defect. I have had seller's spend hours on the seller disclosure working diligently to list any known defect. It never fails that they call the next day to inform me of something they forgot. Try as many sellers may, they can miss something that needs to disclosed.

Is a home inspection a 100% guarantee that all defects will be found? There is nothing in life that is 100% perfect. The only thing that has ever been was crucified! Home inspectors are human and mistakes can occur. However, your chances are slim that major defects will not be found during a home inspection.

I am not familiar with home inspection requirements in other parts of the country, but I would guess that many states do not require professional home inspections. If you are a buyer considering purchasing a home, do not purchase without a home inspection. This is experience talking to you! If you are an agent, please comment and let all of us know if your area requires a home inspection.