What Illinois Buyers Should Know About Property Inspections

 Posted on December 21, 2025 in Residential Real Estate

A property inspection helps you understand what you are buying before the sale is final. For Illinois buyers, inspections can reveal issues that are not easy to see during a showing. A Hyde Park, IL real estate lawyer can also help you understand how inspection results affect your purchase and your legal options, protecting your rights through the entire buying process.

What Does a Property Inspection Do in Illinois?

A property inspection is a professional review of a building’s visible condition. The inspector looks at how the property appears to be working on the day of the inspection. This includes major systems and parts of the structure that can be seen and accessed. The purpose is to spot problems that could affect safety, comfort, or repair costs.

In Illinois, inspections are common in residential real estate purchases. Buyers usually schedule the inspection after signing a purchase agreement. Once the inspection is complete, the inspector provides a written report. This report explains what was found and often includes photos.

The Illinois Residential Real Property Disclosure Act requires sellers to disclose known problems that could affect the value or safety of the property. An inspection helps buyers compare the seller’s disclosures with the actual condition of the property.

Do I Have To Have a Property Inspection Before Buying?

Illinois law does not require buyers to get a property inspection before buying a home. The choice is usually up to the buyer. However, most real estate contracts include a clause that requires an inspection.

Keep in mind that inspections are different from appraisals. An appraisal estimates the value of the property for the lender. It does not focus on conditions or repairs. A loan can still be approved even if the property has problems that an inspection would identify.

What Does a Standard Home Inspection Usually Include?

A standard home inspection reviews the main systems and visible parts of the property. Inspectors do not open walls or cause damage. They look at what they can safely see and access. In Illinois, home inspectors must meet licensing standards under the Illinois Home Inspector License Act. This law sets education and training requirements to help ensure inspectors meet professional standards.

A typical inspection may include a review of these areas:

• The roof, exterior walls, and visible foundation

• Plumbing systems, such as pipes and water heaters

• Electrical panels, outlets, and visible wiring

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems

• Interior features like walls, ceilings, windows, and doors

• Attics, basements, crawl spaces, and drainage conditions

The inspection report usually explains each finding in simple terms. Some issues may be routine maintenance. Others may be listed as safety concerns or items that need repair. Buyers should read the report carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.

Contact Our Flossmoor, IL Real Estate Attorney for a Free Consultation

Attorney Constance R. Sherrod takes time to walk clients through the home-buying process step by step. Many clients return to her for future real estate matters because they value clear guidance and consistent support. She also has a strong passion for working with seniors and helping them navigate property decisions with care and consideration. If you are buying property and have questions about inspections or your legal options, contact the Hyde Park, IL real estate lawyer at The Sherrod Law Firm, Ltd. today at 312-321-6910 to schedule a free consultation.