By: Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
Are home inspections required by law when houses are sold, or are they optional for home buyers? -Andy
Dear Andy,
At this time, no states have made home inspections a legal requirement. Professional property inspections are available to home buyers at their own discretion, as an elective means of consumer protection; as a proactive way to practice the age old caveat: buyer beware. When performed by a truly qualified inspector, they provide the best preemptive defense against negative surprised after the sale. The benefits of a competent inspection serve the needs of all parties in a real estate transaction, by reducing the likelihood of conflicts after the sale. State requirements to protect a home buyer's financial interests should not be necessary. Buyers should have the prudence to do this for themselves.
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