No doubt, buying a home for the first time is exciting! But before you sign on the dotted line, it’s important to do your due diligence — and that often starts with a home inspection.
The inspection is one of the most critical steps in the homebuying process. That’s because, according to Porch, 86% of inspections reveal at least one problem. That kind of insight can make all the difference when you’re preparing for one of the biggest purchases of your life.
Still, plenty of buyers misunderstand what a home inspection actually entails. So, let’s work to separate fact from fiction.
The Purpose of a Home Inspection
First things first, what is a home inspection? And why might you want one?
Home inspection A visual assessment of a given home’s condition. During an inspection, a licensed and/or certified professional checks for thousands of potential problems across various areas of the home.
Home inspections aren’t usually required, but they’re strongly recommended. That’s because home inspections can offer critical insight, information, and transparency that you can leverage when deciding whether to purchase the home as-is, negotiate, or keep looking.
What Does a Home Inspection Cover?
So, what does a home inspection actually cover?
The key components typically include:
- Structural elements
- Safety
- Grounds
- Roof
- Exterior surfaces
- Attic
- Interior plumbing
- Electrical system
- Appliances
- Heating and cooling systems
- Basement
- Garage
- Insulation
- Ventilation
That being said, there are a lot of myths floating around out there when it comes to what buyers can expect a home inspection to cover.
Myth: Home Inspections Cover Cosmetic Issues
Some homebuyers open their inspection expecting to see notes on peeling paint or carpet wear.
In reality, inspections don’t usually cover these kinds of minor cosmetic flaws. After all, walls can be repainted and flooring can be replaced. Issues with the foundation, on the other hand? Not so simple.
Myth: Inspectors Test Every Single Appliance
Unfortunately, moving into a home and an appliance giving out almost immediately isn’t outside the realm of possibility. Sometimes, when this happens, new homeowners are frustrated that these issues weren’t reflected in their home inspection.
Inspectors usually test key, built-in systems like the stove, dishwasher, and HVAC. But secondary or portable appliances, like washers, dryers, refrigerators, and microwaves, aren’t usually covered.
Myth: An Inspection Guarantees the Roof is Leak-Free
New roofing is one of the most expensive repairs or upgrades a home might require. That’s why some homebuyers look to the inspection for a clear picture of the roof’s condition and insight into how long it’s likely to last.
But, in reality, inspectors will usually assess the roof’s condition only from a visual standpoint. They’ll check for damage, wear, and missing shingles, but they won’t dig deeper. And they’ll typically never provide any kind of guarantee on future performance.
Myth: Inspectors Check for Pests, Mold, or Hazardous Materials
A home is the biggest purchase most buyers will ever make. It’s only natural to want assurance that it’s safe, clean, and free from hazardous materials.
Unfortunately, standard home inspections don’t cover things like pests, mold, radon, asbestos, and lead-based paint. A general inspector might flag signs, but they won’t explicitly test for them.
Officially diagnosing these kinds of issues will generally require specialty inspections.
Myth: Specialized Systems and Features are Included
Some buyers believe an inspection will include all systems and features. That’s just not the reality — especially when you’re dealing with unique complexities and specific safety concerns.
Things like wells, septic systems, storage tanks, sprinkler systems, pools, hot tubs, chimneys, fireplaces, solar panels, and some detached structures like sheds will likely require separate, specialized inspections. These features typically just go beyond the expertise of a general inspector.
Myth: Inspectors Check Inside Walls and Underground
What if there’s something concerning hidden behind the drywall or buried under the basement? It would be great if home inspectors had some kind of X-ray vision to ensure the home is in tip-top shape…
In reality, inspectors are limited to what’s visible and accessible. They won’t cut into the walls or dig anything up. Again, if there are warning signs in either category, you might need to consult with a specialist.
Myth: Future Maintenance Needs will be Covered
It can be tempting to view a home inspection as a guarantee for future performance. Unfortunately, that’s just not possible.
Inspectors work to identify current conditions, not predict when or where systems will fail. In some cases, the inspector might find red flags or replacements that should be prioritized. But you’ll still need to budget for routine upkeep and any eventual replacements.
Wrapping Up: What to Expect with a Home Inspection
To make the most of your home inspection, remember that no one can predict the future. The inspector may not find everything “wrong” with the house. And, even if they did, circumstances can change in a split second.
But getting a home inspection is still one of the most important steps you can take during the homeownership process. While there are no guarantees, insight and information can go a long way.
Ultimately, after a thorough inspection, you’ll be better positioned to make the right decision, whatever that may be.
Published on September 22, 2025
