What to Expect from a Home Inspection in Detroit

A home inspection is one of the most critical steps in the homebuying process. For buyers in Detroit, it is particularly important due to the city’s older housing stock, historic architecture, and neighborhood-specific renovation patterns. A proper inspection can uncover hidden issues, provide clarity on necessary repairs, and help you make an informed decision before closing on a property.

Why Inspections Matter in the Detroit Market

Many homes in Detroit were built before modern building codes and standards. While their craftsmanship and design offer long-term value, these properties may also carry aging infrastructure, outdated materials, or previous DIY repairs. A thorough inspection allows you to identify which issues are cosmetic and which are structural or safety-related.

In some cases, sellers in Detroit may offer pre-listing inspections, but you should still conduct your own independent review. Relying on a licensed, third-party inspector gives you control over the findings and ensures that no major concerns go unnoticed.

What a Home Inspection Covers

During a home inspection, a licensed professional examines the property’s major systems and components. The goal is to evaluate the condition of the home and identify potential issues that may affect your decision to purchase or the terms of your offer.

You should expect your Detroit home inspection to include:

Roof, gutters, and drainage
Foundation and structural integrity
Electrical systems and outlets
Plumbing fixtures and water pressure
Heating and cooling systems
Attic insulation and ventilation
Interior walls, ceilings, and flooring
Windows and doors for function and sealing
Basement or crawlspace moisture assessment
Exterior siding, porches, and grading

The inspector will provide a detailed report, often with photos, outlining the findings. This report is not a guarantee, but it does serve as a reliable reference point for evaluating the home’s condition and estimating any necessary repairs.

Specific Issues to Watch for in Detroit Homes

Detroit’s housing inventory includes a mix of historic homes, post-war construction, and newer renovations. Depending on the neighborhood and era, you may encounter some recurring issues. Being aware of what’s common can help you ask the right questions and understand the scope of possible repairs.

Here are issues frequently identified during Detroit home inspections:

Old wiring: Many homes still have knob-and-tube or cloth-covered wiring, which may need updating.
Aging plumbing: Galvanized pipes are common in older homes and often require replacement.
Roof wear: Harsh winters can accelerate roof damage, particularly on homes that haven’t been maintained.
Foundation cracks: Older basements may have minor cracking or water intrusion.
Outdated heating systems: Boilers or furnaces near the end of their lifespan are common in homes over 50 years old.
Lead paint or asbestos: Properties built before 1978 may contain materials that require mitigation.

You should not be alarmed by every issue listed in a report, but you do need to understand which items require immediate attention and which can be addressed over time.

What Inspectors Do Not Cover

While home inspectors provide valuable information, there are limitations to their scope. Most inspections are non-invasive and visual, meaning they do not open walls, test for hidden mold, or inspect specialized systems.

Items typically not included in a standard home inspection include:

Sewer lines or septic systems (unless scoped separately)
Chimney interiors or fireplaces beyond basic visual checks
Environmental testing (mold, radon, lead, asbestos)
Termite or pest inspections (though damage may be noted)
Detached structures or garages, unless specifically requested

If you have concerns about any of these, you can request additional inspections or specialty evaluations. Your real estate agent can help you schedule these and explain which ones may be relevant to the home you’re purchasing.

How to Choose a Home Inspector in Detroit

Not all inspectors have the same qualifications, and not all understand Detroit’s housing history. You should look for an inspector with experience in the local market and credentials from organizations like ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) or InterNACHI.

Ask for sample reports, references, and details about what’s included in their inspection. A thorough, easy-to-understand report can help you make a stronger case for repairs or price adjustments if needed.

If your agent regularly works in Detroit, they can recommend trusted professionals who consistently provide accurate, helpful evaluations.

What Happens After the Inspection

Once the inspection is complete, you and your agent will review the report and decide how to move forward. Depending on the findings, you may:

Request that the seller complete repairs before closing
Ask for a credit or price reduction based on projected costs
Accept the property as-is if the issues are minor or manageable
Withdraw your offer if serious problems are found and no agreement can be reached

Most purchase agreements include an inspection contingency, which allows you to renegotiate or cancel without penalty based on the results. Your agent will help you prepare any repair requests and advise on how to approach the seller professionally.

Reach Out to Gustaf Andreasen

If you are considering buying a home in Detroit, Gustaf Andreasen is ready to help you through every step of the process, including navigating the home inspection stage. Gustaf Andreasen focuses exclusively on assisting clients with buying and selling real estate and brings valuable local knowledge to every transaction.

From recommending reliable inspectors to helping interpret detailed reports, Gustaf Andreasen offers professional guidance tailored to Detroit’s unique housing landscape. His experience ensures that buyers know what to expect and how to move forward after the inspection. For expert support focused solely on your real estate goals, reach out to Gustaf Andreasen today.