Washington Buyer and Seller Guide for Title and Escrow

• HOME INSPECTIONS A home inspection is another component of the escrow process. It is a physical examination to identify material defects in the systems, structure and components of a building, such as foundations, basements and under-floor areas, exteriors, roof coverings, attic areas and roof framing, plumbing, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, fireplaces and chimneys, and building exteriors. Is Your Home Inspector Insured? They should have: Professional Liability Insurance Coverage, General Liability and Workers Compensation. How the Seller Should Prepare for a Home Inspection The seller should have the property fully accessible, including elimination of stored objects that may prevent the inspector from accessing key components of the home. Areas of special concern are attics, crawlspaces, electric panels, closets, garages, gates/ yards, furnaces and water heaters. All utilities should be on with functioning pilots lit. Inspector’s Responsibility to the Homeowner Respect the property. Leave the property as they found it. Answer questions about the report after the inspection is completed. Provide a copy of the report on site. 31 OTHER PARTIES TO AN ESCROW TRANSACTION