Inspection without utilities??

[Kahn Kellams]

I'm purchasing my first foreclosure and I want an inspection done to make sure everything is ok. The problems is, the utilities are all shut off. Should I have them turned on myself before the inspection? Is that legal?

[Account Closed]

@Kahn Kellams you should contact the selling agent and ask.  A lot of the time with foreclosures they will not turn on utilities.  Some will let you turn them on in your name for the inspection, some will not.  If they do, they will probably have you sign some legal responsibility doc.  

If they will not let you turn on the utilities for an inspection, make your offer reflect that - assume the worst.  I would assume that the furnace/boiler needs servicing (if it works at all).  I would assume you will have burst pipes from the house not being heated property.  Your offer should reflect these needed repairs so you are ready for these expenses once the utilities are on.  If you purchase, you will be budgeted for the repairs.  If you find out these repairs are not needed, bonus for you.  

FYI - you can have an inspection without the utilities.  Obviously they will not be able to inspect these things, but they will be able to give you a report on the condition of the roof, foundation, structure, etc.