FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical
structure and systems of a home, from roof to foundation. A home
inspection report or home inspection service is the equivalent
of a physical examination from your doctor. When problems or symptoms
of problems are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation
or remedies, making the home inspection cost well worth it.
What does a home inspection include?
A standard home inspection report summarizes findings from a visual
inspection of the condition of the subject home’s heating
system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting),
interior plumbing and electrical systems; roof, attic, and visible
insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; foundation,
basement, and the visible structures of the home.
Why do I need a home inspection?
A home inspection summarizes the condition of a property, points
out the need for major repairs and identifies areas that may need
attention in the near future. Buyers and sellers depend on an accurate
home inspection to maximize their knowledge of the property in
order to make intelligent decisions before executing an agreement
for sale or purchase.
A home inspection points out the positive aspects of a home, as
well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good
shape. After an inspection, both parties have a much clearer understanding
of the value and needs of the property.
For homeowners, an inspection may be used to identify problems in
the making and to learn about preventive measures, which might avoid
costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, an
inspection prior to placing your home on the market provides a better
understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's
inspector, and provides you an opportunity to make repairs that will
make your home more desirable to potential buyers.
What will it cost?
Inspection fees for a typical single family home vary by geography,
size and features of the property, and age of the home. Additionally,
services such as septic inspections and radon testing may be warranted
depending upon the individual property. Prices vary. It is a good
idea to check local prices in your area as you consider a professional
home inspection.
Do not let the cost deter you from having a home inspection or selecting
an inspector you are comfortable with – knowledge gained from
an inspection is well worth the time and expense. The lowest-priced
inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's qualifications,
including experience, training, and professional affiliations, should
be the most important consideration in your selection.
Can’t I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise
of a professional home inspector. A professional home inspector
has the experience, depth of knowledge and training to make an
unbiased and informed report of the condition of a property. An
inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction,
their proper installation and maintenance. An inspector understands
how the home's systems and components are intended to function
together, as well as how and why they fail and knows what to look
for and is uniquely suited to interpret what their findings reveal
about the condition of the property.
Most buyers find it difficult to remain objective and unemotional
about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment.
For the most accurate information about the condition of a home,
always obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the
field of home inspection.
Can a house fail a home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current
condition of your home. It is not an appraisal, which determines
market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance
to local codes and standards. A home inspector will not pass or
fail a house. A home inspection describes the physical condition
of a property and indicates what may need repair or replacement.
When do I call in the home inspector?
Before you sign the contract or purchase agreement, make your purchase
obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home
inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both
the buyer and seller are obligated. Contact a home inspector immediately
after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Home
inspectors are aware of the time constraints involved in purchase
agreements and most are available to conduct the required inspection
within a few days.
Do I have to be there?
While it is not necessary for you to be present, it is always recommended
that you make time to join the inspector for their visit. This
allows you to observe the inspector, ask questions as you learn
about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how
to maintain them. After you have seen the property with the inspector,
you will find the written report easier to understand.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. When the inspector identifies problems, it does
not indicate you should not buy the house. His findings serve to
educate you in advance of the purchase about the condition of the
property. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms
if major problems are discovered during an inspection. If your
budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future
repair work, this information will be extremely valuable.
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really
need an inspection?
Yes. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence about
the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems.
From the inspection, you will have learned many things about your
new home, and will want to keep that information for future reference.
When making a purchase online, most consumers will look for
a seal of approval from a company such as Thawte or VeriSign. Click
on the seal below to let you know that I am certified by the world's
largest home inspection organization.
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