Home Inspections in Alabama: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Home Inspections in Alabama: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

After a buyer goes under contract—but before closing—they usually have the option to schedule a home inspection. This important step helps buyers understand the true condition of a home before finalizing the purchase and can also help sellers avoid surprises during negotiations.

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s overall condition. A licensed home inspector examines major systems and components, including:

Foundation and structure

Roof and exterior

Plumbing and electrical systems

Heating and air conditioning (HVAC)

Insulation and ventilation

Fireplaces and interior features

Some inspections may also include testing for mold, radon gas, lead paint, or asbestos, which can impact a home’s safety and a buyer’s health.

Are Home Inspections Required in Alabama?

No. Home inspections are not required, but they are strongly recommended—especially in Alabama.

Alabama is a “buyer beware” (caveat emptor) state, meaning sellers are generally not required to disclose all defects in a property. Because of this, buyers are responsible for performing their own due diligence before closing.

That’s why Ashley always recommends a home inspection—so buyers know exactly what they’re purchasing and can move forward with confidence.

Buyers can include a home inspection contingency in their purchase agreement. This allows them to renegotiate, request repairs, or walk away if major issues are discovered. In competitive real estate markets, some buyers choose to waive inspections to strengthen their offer, while others limit repair requests to major safety or structural concerns.

Who Performs a Home Inspection?

Home inspections are conducted by licensed and certified home inspectors, often members of professional organizations such as ASHI or InterNACHI. Inspection costs vary based on the size of the home and any additional testing required.

A REALTOR® can help buyers find a reputable home inspector and determine which inspections make the most sense for a specific property.

Who Pays for the Home Inspection?

In most cases, the buyer pays for the home inspection.

Some sellers choose to complete a pre-listing inspection before putting their home on the market. This can help sellers understand the home’s condition, address issues upfront, and make the listing more attractive to buyers. Inspection costs or repairs may also be negotiated as part of the purchase agreement.

Can a Buyer Attend the Home Inspection?

Yes—and it’s highly recommended. Attending the inspection allows buyers to:

Ask questions in real time

Learn where key systems and shutoffs are located

Better understand the severity of any issues found

This is especially helpful for first-time homebuyers.

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

A typical home inspection takes two to three hours, depending on the home’s size, age, and overall condition.

Common Issues Found During Home Inspections

Inspection reports help buyers understand both current conditions and future maintenance needs. Common issues include:

Foundation or structural concerns

Poor drainage that could cause long-term damage

Faulty wiring that may affect home insurance eligibility

HVAC system problems

Safety concerns like missing smoke detectors or carbon monoxide alarms

Not every issue is a deal-breaker, but inspections help buyers avoid costly surprises after move-in.

What Does “As-Is” Mean in Real Estate?

When a home is listed “as-is,” the seller is stating they will not make repairs—even if issues are found during an inspection. Buyers can still get an inspection, but they should be prepared to handle repairs themselves.

Because Alabama is a buyer beware state, purchasing an as-is home carries additional risk. Working with a knowledgeable real estate professional can help buyers understand their options and protect their investment.

Bottom Line

In Alabama, a home inspection is one of the best ways to protect yourself as a buyer. While inspections aren’t required, Ashley strongly recommends them so you can make informed decisions and feel confident about what you’re buying.

Source: Realtor.org