Why the inspection matters (especially for first-timers)
Buying your first home is exciting—and a little overwhelming. A home inspection is one of the best ways to feel confident about what you’re buying. It helps you understand the home’s condition, identify safety concerns, and plan for repairs or future maintenance.
Think of it like this: the inspection doesn’t “pass” or “fail” a house. It gives you clear information so you can make a smart decision.
What a home inspection typically covers
A standard home inspection usually includes a visual evaluation of major, accessible components like:
- Roof & exterior (shingles, flashing, gutters, siding, grading)
- Foundation & structure (cracks, movement, moisture signs)
- Attic & insulation/ventilation
- Plumbing (leaks, water heater, visible pipes, fixtures)
- Electrical (panels, outlets, safety concerns, visible wiring)
- Heating & cooling systems (as conditions allow)
- Windows/doors (operation, safety, visible defects)
- Interior (walls, ceilings, floors, signs of moisture)
Local/seasonal note for Wisconsin:
- A/C testing is best done when outdoor temps have been 63°F+ for 3 consecutive days in spring, to protect the system.
- Pools/irrigation can only be tested if the system is on and the pool is open.
What first-time buyers often misunderstand
- “The inspector will find everything.”
Inspections are thorough, but they’re also non-invasive. Inspectors can’t see behind walls or under finished flooring. The goal is to find visible issues and risk areas and explain what they mean. - “Newer homes don’t need inspections.”
Even newer homes can have installation issues, drainage concerns, or safety items that are easy to miss. - “I shouldn’t attend the inspection.”
You don’t have to attend, but it can be very helpful. Walking the home with your inspector lets you learn where shutoffs are, what maintenance matters most, and which items are priorities.
How to use your inspection report wisely
When you receive the report, focus on three categories:
- Safety concerns (electrical hazards, combustion issues, tripping hazards)
- Water & moisture (roof leaks, foundation seepage, plumbing leaks—water causes the most damage over time)
- Big-ticket items (roof age, HVAC condition, foundation movement)
Then decide:
- What you want repaired
- What you want credited
- What you can accept and plan for later
If you’re buying your first home in SE Wisconsin, we’re here to make the process clear and comfortable. Call or text On the Level Inspection Service to schedule your inspection, or visit our website to learn what to expect and how to prepare.
Ken Humont – On the Level Inspection Service – Email
