Home Inspection FAQs

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is just that – and inspection of the home you’d like to purchase by a neutral, licensed home inspector. After you’ve put in an offer but before you close, an inspection is done to check the condition of the home inside and out.  

The inspector is looking for anything in the home’s structure or systems (such as heating/cooling) that could pose a safety risk to you. If issues are found, the inspector will note them and might suggest mitigation steps.  

As the buyer, you’ll have to decide if any of the issues found are things you can live with, repairs you’d like to negotiate with the sellers to complete or in extreme cases, big enough to walk away from the sale completely. 

What makes a home inspector credible?

The State of Wisconsin requires that any home inspection performed for a fee must be performed in accordance with the Home Inspection Standard of Practice by the State of Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing. The home inspector must be registered with the state.

Ask friends and family, your real estate agent or your lender if they have recommendations for reputable, licensed inspectors in your area.  

How do I choose a home inspector?

First, make sure any home inspector you consider is licensed by the State of Wisconsin. From there, you’ll want to consider: 

• Cost
• Customerreviews, if available
• Experience
• Certifications

Don’t be afraid to ask people you know, your real estate agent or lender if they have any recommendations they can share with you.  

What does a home inspection include?

The standard home inspector’s report will observe and report on the condition of the entire home, including: 

• Exterior siding
• Soffit(the area underneath a roof’s overhang, suchas eaves)
• Fascia(a board that runs along the roofline near the shingles)
• Flashing(thin pieces of material on a roof that direct water away fromthe house)
• Trim
• Gutters
• Roof
• Chimney
• Windows and doors 
• Caulking
• Garage 
• Landscaping
• Foundation
• Ceilings
• Floors
• Basement
• Heating and cooling system
• Plumbing
• Electrical system
• Appliances, if included in the sale

When should I have a home inspection?

A home inspection is typically performed after an accepted offer to purchase has been signed but before closing on the house.  

You may remove the inspection contingency from your contract – meaning you’re willing to waive an inspection before purchase to finish the sale sooner. However, there is risk involved in that decision and in most cases it is not recommended for the average home buyer. Talk with your real estate agent or mortgage loan officer about the implications before waiving an inspection 

What does a home inspection cost?

Generally fees range from $300-$400 for a single-family home inspection, depending on size and location. Homes with multiple units like duplexes or four-family apartment buildings may cost more.  

Don’t let the cost prevent you from having an inspection done – it may be one of the wisest investments you can make when purchasing a home. 

How long does a home inspection take?

Home inspections usually take about two to three hours depending on the size of the home. You should also plan on being present during the entire inspection if possible. The time spent with the inspector can help you understand any possible issues or concerns that are found, and how severe those issues may or may not be.  

Check out our home inspection checklist for more information. 

Is the home inspection a warranty?

No, a home inspection is not a warranty. It’s a report on the condition of the home by an unbiased professional. The home inspector’s report will give you an objective opinion that you can factor into your decision to buy a particular home. 

Ready to buy? Get in touch with our local mortgage lending experts or get preapproved. 

Still researching? Explore our Mortgage Learning Center.