No house is perfect, not even when it’s new construction. Finding problems upfront is actually a good thing.

It’s important to understand, however, that an inspection report should not be treated as a seller’s fix-it list. It is an impartial report on the honest condition of the property. Once you have your report in hand, your real estate agent can help you decide how to proceed.

Most of your inspection report will be maintenance recommendations and minor imperfections other wise known as a “honey-do list” for after you move in.

These are nice to know about, however, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories the main ones being:

Major defects. An example of this would be a structural failure. Things that lead to major defects. A small roof-flashing leak, for example. Things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home.

Safety hazards. This would include items such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electric panel, mold growth in the living space or a damaged chimney.

Anything in these categories should be addressed. Often a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property.

Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn about defects uncovered during an inspection. Realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in the report. No home is perfect. Keep things in perspective. Don’t kill your deal over things that don’t matter. It is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance, conditions already listed on the seller’s disclosure, or nit-picky items.

A home inspection is not an appraisal or a check for compliance with building codes; it’s also not an evaluation of environmental hazards. See the NYS Standards of Practice for more information on the limitations of an inspection.