What is the term for an inspection carried out before the purchase of a new home?

A pre-purchase inspection refers specifically to the assessment conducted on a property before a potential buyer completes a purchase. This type of inspection is essential for identifying any issues or defects in the home that could affect its value or livability. It allows the buyer to make an informed decision based on the condition of the property.

Unlike a post-purchase inspection, which occurs after the buyer has already acquired the home, a pre-purchase inspection provides insights into the home's current state, including its structural integrity, safety features, and overall condition. Additionally, a home appraisal focuses on determining the property's value for lending purposes rather than conducting a detailed examination of its condition. A building survey is a more comprehensive evaluation typically associated with older homes and may not specifically target the pre-purchase scenario. This is why "pre-purchase inspection" is the correct term for an inspection conducted before buying a new home.