What to Expect from a General Home Inspection: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers

Whether you’re buying or selling a home in Los Angeles County, the general home inspection is a key part of the escrow process. For buyers, it provides a closer look at the home’s condition before committing to the purchase. For sellers, it helps anticipate questions or repair requests that may come up once the inspection report is in.

Why Buyers Should Always Get a General Inspection

Even if you’re buying a condo or a newly remodeled property, a general home inspection is highly recommended. It gives you the chance to uncover any hidden issues and better understand the condition of the home. In California, inspections are typically scheduled and paid for by the buyer after the offer is accepted and escrow is opened.

The inspection is visual and non-invasive. While the time can vary, most general inspections take somewhere between one and two and a half hours depending on the size and layout of the home.

What a General Inspection Covers in a Single-Family Home

A licensed inspector will look at all the major systems and visible areas of the property. This includes the condition of the interior and exterior walls, windows, ceilings, floors, and doors. The plumbing will be tested for leaks, drainage, and water pressure. The electrical panel, outlets, and switches will be checked for safety and functionality. The inspector will turn on the heating and air conditioning systems to make sure they operate correctly. Built-in kitchen appliances and bathroom fixtures are also part of the inspection. If the property has a garage, attic, or crawlspace, those areas will be reviewed for structural concerns, moisture, and ventilation. The roof is usually viewed from the ground, nearby surfaces, or walked if it’s safe to do so.

How Condo Inspections Are Different

In a condo, the inspector focuses on everything inside the unit. This includes plumbing, electrical, HVAC, appliances, and overall interior condition. They typically do not inspect common areas or exterior elements that fall under the responsibility of the homeowners association. This means they usually won’t access the roof, exterior walls, or shared plumbing and electrical systems. However, if the inspector notices visible issues related to HOA-maintained areas, they may still mention them in the report.

Can You Get a Roof Inspection for a Condo?

If you are concerned about the roof, it may be possible to pay extra for a roofing specialist to take a closer look. This depends on whether the homeowners association allows access. Some are more flexible than others, especially if there are visible signs of damage. If access is not granted, your agent can request records from the HOA including the age of the roof, recent repairs, and the reserve study to see if a replacement is planned.

Do Sellers Receive the Inspection Report?

Sellers do not automatically receive a copy of the buyer’s inspection report. Since the inspection is paid for by the buyer, the report belongs to them. If the buyer decides to request a credit or repairs, they will usually share the relevant portions of the report. Some buyers choose to provide the full report as a courtesy, but it is not required. If the buyer cancels escrow due to inspection findings, they may or may not share the report at all.

Some sellers choose to get a pre-listing inspection before putting their home on the market. This allows them to address potential issues ahead of time, set realistic expectations, and sometimes even avoid surprises during escrow.

Final Thoughts

The general home inspection is a standard but important step in every real estate transaction. It helps buyers make informed decisions and gives sellers insight into what might come up during escrow. Whether you’re purchasing a condo in Santa Monica or selling a home in Manhattan Beach, understanding the inspection process can help make your transaction smoother and more transparent.

If you have questions about inspections, how to handle repair requests, or what to expect once escrow begins, I’m happy to help. Contact me HERE or give me a call at (424)212-3859.

Best regards,
Lindsay Woolf | CA DRE #02236711
DOMO Real Estate | CA DRE #01290500

Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Real estate transactions can be complex and subject to local regulations.