Home inspections are one of the most important parts of buying or selling a property — and also one of the most misunderstood. Over the years, we’ve heard just about every myth out there: that home inspectors “fail” houses, that reports are meant to kill deals, or that they’re the same as appraisers (they’re not — we covered that one in another post).
Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths about home inspections so you can go into your next one informed and confident.
Myth #1: The Inspector Decides if the Home “Passes” or “Fails.”
That’s not how inspections work.
A home inspection isn’t a test — it’s a professional evaluation of the home’s condition on that specific day. Every home, even new ones, will have findings. Our job is to help you understand what’s normal wear and tear, what needs attention, and what could pose a safety concern.
There’s no “pass” or “fail.” The goal is knowledge, not judgment.
Myth #2: A Clean or Renovated Home Doesn’t Need an Inspection.
Fresh paint, new cabinets, and shiny fixtures can make a house look perfect — but those cosmetic updates can hide real problems.
Even well-maintained or newly renovated homes can have underlying issues like faulty wiring, plumbing leaks, or structural concerns. A home inspection goes beyond appearances to make sure what’s behind the walls is just as solid as what you see.
Myth #3: All Inspectors Are the Same.
Not true.
Every inspector has a different level of experience, training, and the tools they use. At B.C. Home Inspections, we use specialized technology — including our remote crawler, Johnny 5 — to inspect tight spaces like crawl areas most people can’t access.
We also take time to explain our findings and answer questions long after the inspection is done. So yes, you might find cheaper options, but what you’re really paying for is expertise, accuracy, and availability.
Myth #4: Sellers Don’t Need Their Own Inspection.
Actually, pre-listing inspections are a smart move.
They help sellers identify issues before putting the home on the market, which can prevent surprises, reduce negotiations, and even speed up the sale. Transparency builds trust — and trust sells homes.
Myth #5: Inspectors Will Tell You Whether to Buy the Home.
That’s not our role.
We’re here to provide clear, unbiased information about the home’s current condition. What you do with that information — whether it’s negotiating, requesting repairs, or walking away — is entirely your decision.
Bottom Line
A good inspection isn’t about fear — it’s about clarity.
At B.C. Home Inspections, we’re committed to giving our clients honest, detailed, and easy-to-understand reports so they can make confident decisions about their homes.
Because the more you know about your property, the fewer surprises you’ll face down the road.
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