What to Look For on Your Hawaii Home Inspection Report

Before buying a home on the Big Island, you need to be able to move forward with peace of mind about the condition of the property. A home inspection will give you the chance to make a confident investment, understanding any potential upcoming issues with the home, and having the opportunity to find out of there is a major issue that needs to be resolved before closing. 

We are here to help you find homes for sale on the Big Island. Contact us any time to learn more, and keep reading for what you should look for on the home inspection report.

What is a home inspection report?

A home inspection takes places after an offer has been accepted on the home. The buyer (you) will hire a certified home inspector to review the condition of the home. They will then provide you with a report that tells you about the property, including anything that might need to be repaired or replaced in order to consider the home to be in good condition. 

Reviewing Your Home Inspection Report

When you get the report, it will be full of information and worth taking time to review. Here are some things to watch out for:

• The condition of the roof, including signs of wear and tear, missing shingles, leaks, and potential water damage. Hawaii's tropical climate can be harsh on roofs, so it's essential to ensure it's in good shape.
• The foundation should be free from cracks, settling, or structural issues. Hawaii's volcanic terrain can sometimes lead to unique foundation challenges that need attention.
• Verify the property's elevation and determine if it's in a flood zone. Hawaii is prone to heavy rains and the occasional tsunami threat, so understanding the flood risk is crucial.
• Ensure that the property has proper drainage to prevent flooding or water pooling, especially during heavy rains common in Hawaii.
• Termites and other pests can be common in Hawaii due to the climate. Ensure the home inspection includes a thorough evaluation for termite damage and pest infestations. 
• The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems should be in good working order, as maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home is essential in Hawaii's tropical climate.
• Check for proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and potential mold growth. Hawaii's humid climate can make homes susceptible to mold issues.
• Ensure that the property boundaries are well-defined, and there are no encroachments or property line disputes.
• Assess any potential environmental concerns on the property, such as lava zones, proximity to natural hazards, or the presence of protected species.

Responding to Your Home Inspection Report

You may be wondering what to do if you are looking over the criteria on the report and discover a major issue. If the inspection reveals something wrong with the property, remember that this is ultimately good news. Either you have dodged a bullet and can move on to look for other similar homes, or you are now aware of an issue that needs to be resolved. 

There are few paths you can take in response:

• If we have put a home inspection contingency in your offer, you can walk away from the purchase based on something in the inspection report.
• You can re-negotiate with the seller for a lower purchase price based on the condition of the home and the knowledge that you may have to repair or replace things in the home. 
• You can ask for a credit at closing to cover the cost of repairs. 
• You can require the seller to have the issue resolved before closing, with the cost coming out of their pocket and an additional inspection being conducted before closing. 

Ready to search for homes for sale on the Big Island? Star by contacting us.