What’s Needed for a Home Inspection Based on the Type of Purchase

When you're buying a home, the type of purchase you're making determines exactly what inspections are needed. There are only four types of residential real estate purchases — and each one has its own set of inspection requirements based on lender, insurer, and risk factors.

Let’s break it down clearly, so you know what to expect — and more importantly, what you need — before closing day.

🏠 Conventional Loan Inspection

For conventional loans, a full home inspection is always required. In addition, a wind mitigation report must be included to evaluate the roof's construction and potential discounts for insurance. If the home is 15 years or older, a 4-point inspection is also going to be required for insurance. This focuses on the home's major systems — roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC — to verify they meet insurance standards.

🏠 VA Military Loan Inspection

VA loans have some of the strictest requirements. In addition to the full home inspection, a termite (WDO) inspection is required to ensure the property is free from wood-destroying organisms. If the property uses a private well, water testing is mandatory. Homes that are 15 years or older require a 4-point inspection, and every VA loan inspection also requires a wind mitigation report for insurance carriers.

🏠 FHA Loan Inspection

FHA loan inspections are similar to VA, with a few differences. You'll need a full home inspection and a termite inspection. A 4-point inspection is required for any home that’s 15 years or older, and a wind mitigation report is also part of the standard requirements. These inspections help ensure the home is livable, insurable, and structurally sound under FHA lending rules.

🏠 Cash Purchase Inspection

Even when there's no lender involved, certain inspections are still needed for insurance and due diligence. A full home inspection is standard for all cash purchases. A wind mitigation report is also required, particularly for insurance purposes. If the home is 15 years or older, a 4-point inspection is necessary before you can bind coverage.

⚠️ Additional Requirements Based on Property Conditions

Some services aren’t tied to the loan type, but are automatically needed based on the home itself. If the home is over 20 years old, a mold test is strongly suggested. If the property has a septic system or multiple large trees in the yard, a sewer scope inspection is needed to check for root intrusion or damage. And if the property uses a private well, water testing is a must — even on cash deals.

Our team offers Sewer Scope Inspections, Water Testing, and Mold Testing as add-ons to any inspection—all performed by experienced professionals using the latest tools and technology. 🛠️

Buying a home is a big decision—make sure you’ve looked at everything.

Get a Professional Home Inspection Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Whether you need a buyer’s inspection, seller’s inspection, or annual safety check, Home Inspection Resource is your trusted partner in Central, FL.

✅ Ready to schedule your inspection? Contact Home Inspection Resource today to schedule your inspection!

📍 Serving Kissimmee and surrounding areas! 📞407-233-8187 - or click HERE and schedule online!