The FHA recommends a home inspection apart from its mandatory home appraisal. Home inspection is a more in-depth review of property conditions than an appraisal. It takes longer to complete and more often gives the buyer an opportunity to back out of a purchase. Any independent and qualified inspector who works on behalf of the homebuyer may do the property inspection. This is the most reliable means of obtaining factual details about the condition of the property. The FHA home inspection checklist gives the following details:
* Home's physical condition, including structure, construction and mechanical systems
* Items that need to be repaired or replaced
* Useful life of major equipment, systems and structure
