What is the primary purpose of a home inspection?

The primary purpose of a home inspection is to assess the condition of a home and identify any issues or defects. This process is essential for prospective buyers, as it provides a detailed evaluation of the property's structure, systems, and components. A thorough inspection can reveal existing problems, such as structural issues, plumbing concerns, electrical system deficiencies, and pest infestations, which may not be visible during a casual walkthrough of the property.

By identifying these defects, a home inspection really serves to inform buyers so that they can make a well-informed decision regarding their purchase. It also allows sellers to address issues before listing the property, potentially avoiding complications during the sale.

In contrast, assessing a home's market value is typically conducted through an appraisal rather than a home inspection. Providing a list of possible renovations is usually outside the scope of a standard home inspection, which focuses more on the current condition rather than recommending improvements. Lastly, while a home inspection might touch on some elements related to local building codes, its main goal is not to ensure compliance with these codes but rather to provide a comprehensive overview of the home's overall condition.