What inspections should I order before I sell my Alameda home?

What inspections should I order before I sell my Alameda home?

• The most important inspection an Alameda home owners should order is a property inspections which should be performed by an inspector who is a member of American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)  or the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) or other similar organizations.  Members of those association are bonded and insured.  The inspector, many times a licensed contractor,  will review all systems including, electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning and the condition of the foundation.  The inspection report is lengthy covering all the systems of the home and describing any areas that need to be addressed.

• A pest inspection will determine if there is evidence of dry rot, termite and beetle infestation and problems with the foundation.  You will receive an inspection report which will identify areas of concern.  These areas are divided in two categories, Section 1 items which the seller must cure and which may include dry rot and insect infestation.  Section 2 items are items the seller needs to be aware of but do not have to be addressed immediately.  Some of the items mentioned in Section 2 are keeping the tile grout in good condition, making sure the ventilation in bathrooms and kitchen is in good working condition, etc.  Included in the report is an estimate of the price to make Section 1 and Section 2 repairs.

• A roof inspection may be prudent if the property inspector notes a problem with the roof.  The property inspector may suggest further inspection of the roof.  The roof inspection will include information about the age of the roof, if there any loose shingles or tiles, problems with flashing and other items.

• A fireplace and chimney inspection may be called for in the property inspection.  If there are loose bricks, or no damper, the property inspection may suggest additional inspection of the chimney.  A seller should have their chimney cleaned once a year to prevent chemical built up of fire and wood byproducts. 

• The property inspection may suggest further inspection of the foundation.  In that case  a structural engineering report may be necessary.

• If there are discolored walls or evidence of what looks to be mold, an environmental mediation company may be necessary to dismiss any notion of a mold problem.

In reality, a property inspection and pest control inspection are usually all that an Alameda homeowners will need to show the condition of the home to a buyer.

In California,  copies of all inspection reports must be provided to a buyer, even if the items mentioned in the inspection reports have been cleared.  The seller must comply with full disclosure requirements for a sale or risk litigation if the non-disclosure is of a material fact.

If you are considering selling your Alameda home I can help you navigate the sales process and those thing that you should do before selling your home.  Call or text me at 510-504-5612 for advice.  Visit my webpage and my Facebook page Living in Alameda.