What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know About Getting a Home Inspection in North Carolina

In the enchanting landscapes of North Carolina, from dynamic urban centers like Charlotte to picturesque towns like Asheville, the real estate market thrives on a rich architectural heritage. Within this vibrant market, the home inspection phase emerges as a pivotal step for both buyers and sellers alike. For buyers, a home inspection serves as a blueprint, revealing potential issues and guiding them towards informed investments. Meanwhile, sellers find in it a transparent avenue to address concerns and substantiate their asking price.

This Redfin article is dedicated to shedding light on the pivotal role of home inspections in North Carolina, offering expert insights to prospective homebuyers and sellers.

Why should you get a home inspection in North Carolina?

“Everyone knows the importance of a home inspection for buyers. However, our inspection company is receiving more requests from sellers to inspect their NC homes in preparation for a real estate sale,” mentions Builder Buddy. “A pre-sale inspection helps discover leaks and other major issues that might cause contract termination. Additionally, a pre-sale inspection helps sellers anticipate repair and negotiation requests from buyers, resulting in smoother transactions and higher sales prices.”

Are there any specialized inspections that North Carolina buyers should consider?

“Yes, when buying a home, in addition to a standard home inspection, several specialized services may be necessary or advisable depending on the property’s location, age, and unique characteristics,” suggests A1 House Inspection. “These services can include:

• Termite and Pest Inspection: Especially crucial in areas prone to termite infestations, this inspection checks for wood-destroying pests that can cause significant damage to the property.
• Radon Testing: In regions with a history of radon gas issues, testing can ensure that the property is free from dangerous radon levels, a potential health hazard.
• Mold Inspection: Particularly relevant in damp or humid climates, a mold inspection can identify the presence of mold or mildew, which can affect indoor air quality and pose health risks.
• Septic System/Sewer Line Inspection: If the property has a septic system or municipal sewage connection, an inspection can reveal any issues with the system’s functionality and condition.
• Well Water Quality Testing: For homes with well water, testing ensures that the water supply is safe and free from contaminants.”

New South Property Inspections recommends that “In addition to the general home inspection, buyers should also consider having a sewer scope of their underground sewer drain lines, especially if the buyer is purchasing an older house with cast iron drain lines or a lot with many trees. These older lines are notorious for being susceptible to damage from tree roots, which can lead to sewer backups into the house and cause thousands of dollars in damage.”

Are home inspections required in North Carolina?

“A home inspection is not required in the state of North Carolina but it’s highly suggested as it’s a buyer beware state,” mentions Quality Home Consultants. “A home inspection can save thousands of dollars on items that are not visible to the average homeowner. Additional inspections such as termite, septic, well, water testing, and radon testing are also suggested as these can also save a potential buyer thousands of dollars.”

“In North Carolina, a home inspection is not required, although many lenders will require the property to have an inspection,” says Dixon Home Inspection, LLC. “I recommend my services as a home inspector for a few reasons, the main reason being that it is likely the largest purchase a person will make. It is a good idea to have a non-biased and well trained second opinion for purchasing your home. For the cost, an inspection report is a valuable tool to any new homeowner. My goal is to provide a clear understanding of the home and all its components.”

“It is always recommended but not required to get a home inspection,” suggests Inspector Joe.  “The buyer should never rely on the sellers, or a previous client’s home inspection, because the inspection report from another person is not legally binding to the current buyer, and there can be no legal action should the home inspector miss something. 

Even in new construction, hidden issues may be present, which could cause damage to your personal property. Septic and well systems and well water, if present on your home, should also be inspected as part of the inspection process. What you don’t know about your home, could be a major expense that you would be stuck with.”

How much does a home inspection cost in North Carolina?

 “The cost of a home inspection in North Carolina can vary based on factors like the size and age of the property, as well as additional specialized inspections,” shares The Inspection Co. “On average, it can range from $400 to $700, but prices may differ based on location and specific requirements.”

Can you sell a house in North Carolina without an inspection?

Yes, you can sell a house in North Carolina without an inspection. Home inspections are typically not required by law for selling a house in North Carolina. However, it’s important to note that many buyers may request an inspection as part of their due diligence before purchasing a property. Additionally, some real estate agents and professionals may recommend getting a pre-sale inspection to identify and address any potential issues that could arise during the sales process. Ultimately, whether to have an inspection or not is a decision made by the seller and the buyer in the real estate transaction.

Expert advice for North Carolina buyers before they get a home inspection

“My advice for a buyer or seller, before having a home inspected, is to research the home inspector who will complete the inspection,” recommends  Clear Choice Home Inspections.  “Several things to consider are how long the home inspector has been in business, reviews from past clients, the home inspector’s background and home repair experience, types of services offered and tools and equipment used during the inspection. 

It is also suggested to obtain a sample report from the inspector to see how clearly the report is written, how easy it is to follow, check for clear photographs, etc. Many people focus only on price and will let $25 – $35 sway their decision. Saving such a small amount of money on a huge investment does not always pay off. Experience, reviews, and reports are most important.”

North Carolina home inspection: the bottom line

Both buyers and sellers should remain vigilant regarding unique factors in North Carolina, including coastal influences and the state’s diverse climate, which can influence a property’s condition. In North Carolina, a thorough home inspection isn’t merely a formality—it’s a vital instrument for fostering transparency, trust, and a seamless real estate transaction.

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