Due diligence in the US
Home inspection, lead and radon, flood zones, seller disclosures and title.
Applies to: United States. Reviewed 2026-09-25.
Key takeaways
- The buyer normally orders and pays for their own home inspection.
- For homes built before 1978 the seller must disclose known lead hazards, and you are entitled to ten days to test.
- Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding; check FEMA's maps.
Inspections and tests
- Home inspection of structure, roof, electrical, plumbing and systems.
- Wood-destroying organism (termite) inspection, in many states.
- Sewer scope of the drain line.
- Specialist checks as needed: roof, foundation, pool, well and septic.
Sellers of homes built before 1978 must disclose known lead-based paint and hazards, provide an information pamphlet and give the buyer ten days to test for lead.
The EPA recommends testing for radon when buying a home.
Flooding, title and disclosures
FEMA's maps show flood zones. In high-risk zones the lender may require flood insurance, and standard homeowners insurance normally does not cover flooding.
A title search shows the ownership history, liens and easements. Title insurance protects against defects in title. What the seller must disclose about condition is set by each state.
Questions to ask
- How old are the roof, HVAC system and electrical panel?
- Has radon been tested, and is there a mitigation system?
Red flags
- Signs of water damage, mould or foundation settlement.
- Unclear boundaries or easements in the title report.
Sources
- Real estate disclosures about potential lead hazards (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)
- Home buyer's and seller's guide to radon (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)
- FEMA Flood Map Service Center (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
- FloodSmart (FEMA National Flood Insurance Program)