Should I Attend the Home Inspection?
Yes — attending your home inspection, at least for the final walkthrough portion, is strongly encouraged. Being present lets you see findings in person, understand which issues are significant versus cosmetic, and ask questions on the spot, which makes the written report far more useful for your decision and negotiations.
The short answer: yes
Attending your home inspection is one of the most valuable things you can do as a buyer. While the inspector does the detailed work, being there — especially for the final walkthrough — turns a written report into real understanding of the home you are about to buy.
Why being there matters
- You see issues in person. A photo of a cracked heat exchanger or a rotted ledger means more when you have seen it with your own eyes.
- You learn the difference between cosmetic and significant. The inspector can explain which findings are routine maintenance and which deserve attention before you commit.
- You can ask questions on the spot. Understanding the why behind a finding is far easier in person than from a document later.
- You learn the home. Where the main shutoffs are, how the systems work, what to watch — practical knowledge for the years ahead.
How to make the most of it
You do not need to shadow the inspector for the entire visit. A good approach is to arrive for the last 45 minutes to an hour, when the inspector can walk you through the findings while they are fresh. Bring a notepad, wear practical shoes, and do not hesitate to ask about anything — including the issues common to older St. Paul homes.
What to focus on
Pay particular attention to safety items, big-ticket systems (roof, foundation, electrical, HVAC), and anything the inspector recommends for further evaluation — a sewer scope or specialist follow-up. These are the findings that most affect your decision and your negotiation.
Frequently asked questions
Should I attend the whole inspection?
You do not have to. Arriving for the final 45 minutes to an hour for the walkthrough captures most of the benefit while letting the inspector work.
Why is attending so valuable?
Seeing findings in person, learning which are significant, and asking questions on the spot make the written report far more useful for your decision.
What should I focus on during the walkthrough?
Safety items, big-ticket systems like the roof, foundation, electrical and HVAC, and anything recommended for further evaluation.
Can I ask the inspector questions?
Absolutely. Understanding the why behind each finding is much easier in person, and a good inspector welcomes your questions.
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