Helping Buyers Manage Risk with Home Inspections
Helping Buyers Manage Risk with Home Inspections
It would be impossible for even the most knowledgeable Realtor to know everything about every mechanical system in a home. That is why it is important to have inspectors and licensed contractors to assist with those details. However, as real estate professionals, my team and I have learned a few of the basic facts about home inspections so we can better represent our clients and help them identify possible red flags that could lead to expensive repairs.
1.) When a home inspector reports a “split” HVAC system, they are basically measuring the temperature difference between the air going into the AC system and the air coming out. A Split of 16-22 degrees F is considered a “good split”. If the number is higher or lower than that, there is typically a problem.
2.) When you ask a seller to make a repair:
*Per our Arizona Residential Contract, we want to make sure the seller provides a receipt for any repairs done. This will give you protection during the re-inspection process.
*We should always ask the seller for a receipt from a licensed contractor(s).
*Performing a re-inspection will ensure the contractor actually performed the repair.
3.) Adding refrigerant to an AC unit is not a repair. If a contractor adds more than 2 pounds of refrigerant, they should be searching for and repairing any leaks or replacing a system component.
4.) Since home inspections are not “technically exhaustive” they do not disassemble HVAC units to inspect the coils, etc. It may be wise to hire a licensed HVAC contractor to do a separate inspection of the AC unit.
*An additional inspection of the AC until will give you a broader scope that what is evaluated during a home inspection and usually run about $75.00. If the unit is older, the house has been a rental or pets have lived in the home, you may want to consider having an additional HVAC inspection.
Of course, another great way to mitigate risk is to request a Professionals Home Warranty! Ask my team how we can help you negotiate a Professionals Home Warranty in your home purchase.
