The average cost for a home inspection in Utah is $360, depending on the home’s age and square footage and the home inspection provider.
The state of Utah doesn’t mandate home inspections, but your mortgage provider might require one. Either way, it’s a good idea to get one. Home inspections can catch potentially expensive problems, such as lead paint or termite damage—before you sign on the dotted line.
Thankfully, Jerry
, the super app for home insurance
, has created a guide on home inspection costs in Utah to make things easier. We’ll cover everything from what a home inspection is, how much it costs, and how to find an inspector in the Beehive State. What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive inspection of the condition and safety of a property. Typically, home inspections happen when a house is on the market to be sold, and the potential buyer pays for them.
A qualified home inspector assesses the property’s current condition, including structural soundness, electrical work, plumbing, water and sewage, and heating and cooling systems. In addition, they will look for evidence of damage caused by fire, water, or insects and any other issues that might impact the home’s value.
Depending on the inspector’s findings, the buyer may choose to back out of the sale, renegotiate the sale price, ask for repairs, or move on to closing.
MORE: How to make a counteroffer after a home inspection
How much does a home inspection cost in Utah?
The average cost of a home inspection in Utah is about $360, but the exact price depends on several factors, including your home’s size, age, location, and the company you hire. For example, in the capital city of Salt Lake City, home inspections can range anywhere from $250 to $500+.
For a typical 1,000 to 2,000-square foot home, you should count on an inspection to cost you about $250 - $350. As the square footage moves up, so does the cost. In addition, specialized inspections have differing rates: for example, a standalone termite inspection would cost between $150 and $180, while a sewer scope inspection costs between $180 and $220.
MORE: How to buy a foreclosed home
How to get a home inspection in Utah
When you’re buying a home in Utah, finding a qualified inspector should be your first priority. You can start your search through the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). Both organizations allow you to search for certified home inspectors in every state.
It is important to note that home inspectors aren’t licensed in Utah, and the industry isn’t regulated. No construction experience, trade exams, or anything of the like is required.
Because of this, it is vital to do research on the company or person you hire. Be sure to:
Check if they have any certifications (from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), for example).
Find out how long they’ve been inspecting homes.
Learn about their career background and ask if they have previous construction experience.
Check online reviews—if an inspector doesn’t have any online testimonials, be skeptical.
What is covered in a home inspection?
No two home inspections are alike, especially in a state where the industry is unregulated. Still, most home inspectors will visually examine the home from top to bottom, including the:
In addition, they will likely do a quick check for damage caused by insects, water, fire, and any other issues that may affect the home's value.
While items such as radon tests and oil tank sweeps are not usually part of a home inspection, they are worth investing in on their own, as the potential environmental issues could cost you a lot of money. Other standalone assessments you may want to look into include:
Who pays for a home inspection?
In Utah, the buyer typically hires and pays for a home inspector. While you are not required to be there for the inspection, it is a good idea, so you can ask questions as they go along and make notes of anything you’d like to fix.
Sometimes, a seller will pay for a home inspection before listing a property. Pre-inspection allows them to discover any potential issues in advance and repair them if they choose. Most states require a seller to disclose any information found during this process to potential buyers.
Even if this is the case, it still makes sense for buyers to get their own inspection.
Key Takeaway As a potential home buyer, it is your responsibility to find and pay for a home inspector. This is true even if the seller has already had an inspection, as you cannot guarantee that they will disclose all the pertinent information.
Protect yourself with home insurance in Utah
Whether you’re buying new construction or a fixer-upper, a home inspection can help you gain peace of mind. And getting the right home insurance coverage is one more way you can feel secure in the purchase of your new house.
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