What Happens During a Home Inspection?

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. Once your offer has been accepted, one of the most important steps in the process is the home inspection.

If you’re buying a home in Kankakee County, understanding what happens during a home inspection can help you feel more confident, avoid costly surprises, and make an informed decision before closing.

Whether you’re purchasing your first home in Kankakee, upgrading in Bourbonnais, relocating to Manteno, or investing in Bradley, the home inspection is designed to protect you.

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s visible condition. A licensed home inspector examines the home’s major systems and components to identify defects, maintenance concerns, and potential safety issues.

The inspection is not a pass-or-fail test. Instead, it provides buyers with information so they can better understand the condition of the property before finalizing the purchase.

When Does the Home Inspection Take Place?

In Illinois, the home inspection usually occurs shortly after the seller accepts your offer.

Most purchase contracts include a home inspection contingency, giving buyers a specific amount of time to complete the inspection and review the findings.

Scheduling the inspection quickly helps keep the transaction moving smoothly.

What Does a Home Inspector Examine?

A thorough home inspection typically includes:

Roof

The inspector will evaluate:

Roof shingles
Flashing
Gutters
Chimney condition
Signs of leaks
Estimated remaining life

Foundation

Structural concerns are one of the most important areas inspected.

The inspector looks for:

Cracks
Settlement
Water intrusion
Uneven floors
Structural movement

Electrical System

Electrical components evaluated include:

Service panel
Wiring
Grounding
Outlets
Switches
Safety hazards

Plumbing

The plumbing inspection includes:

Water supply lines
Drain lines
Water pressure
Fixtures
Water heater
Signs of leaks

Heating and Cooling

Your inspector will evaluate the condition and operation of the:

Furnace
Air conditioner
Thermostat
Ductwork
Air filters

Attic

The attic provides valuable clues about a home’s condition.

Inspectors evaluate:

Insulation
Ventilation
Roof framing
Moisture
Pest activity

Basement and Crawlspace

Inspectors look for:

Moisture
Foundation movement
Mold concerns
Drainage problems
Sump pump operation

Interior

Rooms throughout the home are inspected for:

Doors
Windows
Flooring
Walls
Ceilings
Smoke detectors

Exterior

The exterior inspection includes:

Siding
Decks
Driveways
Walkways
Grading
Landscaping drainage

What Happens After the Inspection?

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report explaining the inspector’s findings.

This report often includes:

Photos
Maintenance recommendations
Safety concerns
Repair suggestions
Estimated priorities

It’s important to remember that even newer homes often have inspection findings. Nearly every home will have items that need attention.

Can I Ask the Seller to Make Repairs?

Yes.

Depending on the inspection results, buyers may:

Request repairs
Request a credit toward closing costs
Negotiate the purchase price
Accept the property as-is
Cancel the contract if permitted under the inspection contingency

Your Realtor can help you determine which requests are reasonable based on the inspection report and current market conditions.

Should I Attend the Inspection?

Absolutely.

Attending gives buyers the opportunity to:

Ask questions
Learn how major systems work
Understand routine maintenance
See potential issues firsthand

Many inspectors also provide maintenance tips that can help homeowners care for the property after closing.

Common Issues Found During Home Inspections

Some of the most common findings include:

Worn roofing materials
Aging HVAC systems
Minor plumbing leaks
Loose handrails
GFCI outlet updates
Caulking and weatherproofing
Insulation improvements

These issues are common and don’t necessarily mean you should walk away from the purchase.

Should New Construction Homes Be Inspected?

Yes.

Many buyers assume new construction doesn’t need an inspection, but even brand-new homes can have:

Incomplete work
Installation errors
Plumbing issues
Electrical concerns
Roofing defects

An independent inspection provides peace of mind before closing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a home inspection take?

Most inspections last between two and four hours, depending on the size and condition of the property.

Does every home fail an inspection?

No. A home inspection isn’t graded as pass or fail. It simply identifies the property’s condition and any areas that may need attention.

Who pays for the inspection?

In most real estate transactions, the buyer pays for the home inspection.

Can a home inspection save me money?

Absolutely. Identifying major issues before closing may allow you to negotiate repairs, request credits, or avoid unexpected expenses after purchasing the home.

Should I waive the inspection?

In most situations, waiving the inspection is not recommended. The inspection is one of the best protections available to buyers.

Final Thoughts

A home inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make during the home-buying process. It provides valuable information about the condition of the home and helps buyers make confident, informed decisions.

Every home—whether it’s brand new or over 100 years old—can have maintenance needs. The goal isn’t to find a perfect house; it’s to understand the property you’re purchasing.

If you’re buying a home anywhere in Kankakee County, having an experienced Realtor who can help you interpret inspection findings and negotiate repairs can make the entire process much less stressful.

About the Author

James Goudreau is a Realtor® with Coldwell Banker Realty serving buyers, sellers, investors, and relocation clients throughout Kankakee County. He specializes in helping clients navigate every step of the home-buying process with honest advice, local expertise, and exceptional service.

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Author Bio: James Goudreau, Realtor® | Coldwell Banker Realty – Kankakee County Hands-on local expertise with a modern marketing approach.