Do You Still Need a Home Inspection If You Are Buying a House “As Is”?

You found the perfect home and it is for sale “as is”. Is an inspection still necessary since the sellers are not willing to fix or compensate for any repairs? The answer is, absolutely yes! The more knowledge you have about the home and its major problems, the more you can determine if the house is worth the purchase price.

Potential Major Problems with an “As Is” Property

House repairs can add up quickly on an “as is” sale. Here are a few that may not be immediately recognized during a walk through:

• Structural problems
• Leaking or faulty roof
• Chinese drywall
• Active termite infestation or damage
• Non-functioning systems (HVAC, septic system, etc.)
• Mold or mildew problems
• Presence of asbestos or other harmful materials

What If Only Some Items Are Being Sold “As Is”

Examples of items commonly listed “as is” in a house sale could include:

• Fireplaces, chimneys and flues
• Detached structures (sheds, garages, etc.)
• Household appliances (washer, dryer, refrigerator, etc.)
• Swimming pools, spas, hot tubs

“As-is” in these situations often refer to aspects of the property that may or may not be functioning, but that the seller will not repair or change as part of the contract of sale.

What Is a “Where Is” Clause?

When sellers include a “where is” clause, they indicate that the property must be accepted in its current location. In real estate terms, “where-is” effectively excuses any potential locational faults. These can include:

• The property is in a flood zone
• The property is not zoned for its current use
• The property is or may be scheduled to be taken by a government by eminent domain, right-of-way, easement, etc.
• The presence, or lack thereof, of restrictive deed covenants limiting what an owner may or may not do upon the property
• Inclusion, or non-inclusion, within a designated historic zone
• The property lies within an airport flyover zone
• The presence of some geological defect (inability to perc a septic system, elevated radon levels, shrink-swell soil, etc.)
• Actual or potential defects of Title

Before buying, it is important you learn why the home is listed “where-is”, so you can make a fully-informed decision.

Inspections Can Allow Buyers To Get Out in Time

According to redfin.com, some buyers and sellers may agree to an “as-is” sale, but still allow for a home inspection and the opportunity for the buyer to unilaterally terminate the contract for a specified period of time following inspections. While technically not adhering to the legal definition of “as-is”, this is permissible as long as the parties are in agreement. Check with your realtor to ensure this is the case.

Have Any Questions?

Looking for a top-quality home inspector in Connecticut? Angell Home Inspection Services, LLC provides fast, reliable, worry-free residential home inspection services designed to give you the peace of mind you deserve. Check out our 5-star Google reviews here.

Following our evaluation, we’ll compile our findings in an easy-to-read report, which will include detailed descriptions and high-resolution digital photos of any issues we’ve discovered. We’ll email your report within 48 hours, and our job isn’t finished until you understand everything in it.

Please contact Angell Home Inspection at (860) 402-6644 or schedule your inspection here.