Should I Get a Home Inspection, and What Does It Cover in San Jose? (2026 Guide)

Should I Get a Home Inspection, and What Does It Cover in San Jose? A 2026 Buyer Guide

After your offer is accepted, one of the most important steps in the buying process is the home inspection.

Many buyers ask:

• “Do I really need a home inspection?”

• “What does it actually cover?”

• “What happens if the inspector finds problems?”

• “Can I cancel the deal if something looks serious?”

In San Jose, inspections are a critical protection tool — especially in a market where homes can be older, remodeled multiple times, or sold with limited warranties.

This guide explains why home inspections matter, what they typically cover, and how buyers use inspections to make smart decisions in 2026.

For a full overview of the buying process, start here:
👉 https://re38.com/san-jose-home-buying-process-guide

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s physical condition.

A licensed home inspector reviews visible and accessible components of the home, helping buyers understand:

• current condition

• safety concerns

• deferred maintenance

• potential future costs

Inspections are designed to inform — not scare — buyers.

What Does a Typical Home Inspection Cover?

A standard home inspection in San Jose usually includes:

• roof and attic

• foundation and structure

• plumbing systems

• electrical systems

• HVAC (heating and cooling)

• walls, ceilings, floors, and windows

• appliances (basic operation)

• drainage and grading

Inspectors document findings in a detailed report, often with photos and recommendations.

What Home Inspections Do NOT Cover

It’s just as important to understand the limits of an inspection.

Most inspections do not include:

• cosmetic issues

• code compliance verification

• underground plumbing unless scoped separately

• mold testing (unless ordered separately)

• invasive or destructive testing

This is why additional inspections may be recommended depending on the home.

Common Additional Inspections in San Jose

Depending on the property, buyers may also consider:

• pest inspection

• roof inspection

• sewer lateral inspection

• chimney inspection

• pool or spa inspection

Your agent should help determine which inspections make sense based on the home’s age, location, and condition.

When Does the Inspection Happen?

Inspections typically occur:

• after the offer is accepted

• during the inspection contingency period

• before appraisal and contingency removal

Timing is important — inspections are one of your primary protection windows as a buyer.

For context on how inspections fit into escrow, see:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/what-happens-after-my-offer-is-accepted-san-jose

What Happens If the Inspection Finds Issues?

Almost every home has issues — the question is how serious they are.

After reviewing the inspection report, buyers may:

• proceed as-is

• request repairs

• ask for credits

• renegotiate price

• cancel the contract if protected by contingencies

Not every issue is a deal-breaker, but understanding severity and cost matters.

How Inspections Protect Earnest Money

As long as the inspection contingency is in place:

• buyers can renegotiate or cancel

• earnest money remains protected

Once contingencies are removed:

• buyers typically accept the home’s condition

• earnest money becomes non-refundable

Understanding this timing is critical.

For earnest money details, review:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/what-is-earnest-money-how-much-is-normal-san-jose

Inspection vs Appraisal: What’s the Difference?

These two steps are often confused.

• Inspection protects the buyer by evaluating condition

• Appraisal protects the lender by evaluating value

Both play different roles, and both are important.

For appraisal context, see:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/how-does-the-appraisal-work-what-if-it-comes-in-low-san-jose

What This Means for Buyers in 2026

In 2026:

• inspections are back and expected

• buyers have more leverage than during frenzy years

• sellers anticipate inspection questions

• transparency matters more than speed

Skipping an inspection can expose buyers to unnecessary risk — especially for older homes common in San Jose.

What You Should Do Next

Before waiving or shortening inspections, it’s important to:

• understand the property

• assess your risk tolerance

• review disclosures carefully

• consult professionals

I help buyers:

• interpret inspection reports

• understand what matters vs noise

• negotiate fairly and confidently

• decide when to move forward — or walk away

👉 If you want help navigating inspections, reach out here:
https://re38.com/contact

📞 Questions About Home Inspections? Let’s Talk

A home inspection shouldn’t create fear — it should create clarity.

A short conversation can help you understand what inspections really tell you and how to use them to protect yourself.

Zaid Hanna
408-515-1613
www.re38.com