A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If major problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation. However home inspection is not intended to pint out every small problem or defect, minor or cosmetic flaws in a home.
The standard home inspection will review the condition of the home's structure, roof, exterior, interior, electrical, plumbing, insulation, ventilation, heating and central air conditioning system (temperature permitting). You will learn a lot about the home during the inspection. The more knowledge gained about the home, makes it easer to make a well informed decision on purchasing that home.
Q. WHEN DO I CALL IN THE HOME INSPECTOR?
A home inspector is
typically contacted right after the purchase
agreement has been signed, and is often available within
a few days. However, before you sign, be
sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract
if you would like to have the home you are buying inspected,
making 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.
Q. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
It depends on the age, size and condition of the property and the number of questions
you have. The average time is about two to three
hours. We encourage you to ask questions. We will answer
the questions so you will understand the answer in
lay-man's terms. It is important that you understand the
basic operation of all the components of the home.
Q. DO I HAVE TO BE THERE?
It is very important for
you to be present to observe the inspector and ask questions
directly, as you learn about the condition of the home, how
its systems work, and how to maintain it. You will also find
the written report easier to understand if you've seen the
property first-hand through the inspector's eyes.
Q. WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?
The purchase of a home
is probably the largest single investment you will ever
make. You should learn as much as you can about the
condition of the property and the need for any major
repairs before you buy, so that you can
minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties
afterwards.
Of course, a home
inspection also points out the positive aspects of a
home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary
to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will
have a much clearer understanding of the property you are
about to purchase.
If you are already a
home owner, a home inspection may be used to identify
problems in the making and to learn preventive measures
which might avoid costly future repairs.
Q.
CAN'T I DO IT MYSELF? Even the most
experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise
of a professional home inspector who has inspected
hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes in his or her
career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements
of home construction, their proper installation, and
maintenance. He or she understands how the home's systems
and components are intended to function together, as well
as how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers
find it very difficult to remain completely objective and
unemotional about the house they really want, and this
may affect their judgment. For the most accurate
information, it is best to obtain an impartial
third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home
inspection. Q. CAN
A HOUSE FAIL or PASS INSPECTION? No. A professional home
inspection is an examination of the current condition of
your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which
determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which
verifies local code compliance. A home inspector,
therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather
describe its physical condition and indicate what may
need repair or replacement. Q. WHAT
IF THE REPORT REVEALS PROBLEMS? No house is perfect. If
the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily
mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know
in advance what to expect. A seller may adjust the
purchase price or contract terms if major problems are
found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish to
become involved in future repair work, this information
will be extremely important to you. Q. IF
THE HOUSE PROVES TO BE IN GOOD CONDITION, DID I REALLY
NEED AN INSPECTION? Definitely. Now you can
complete your home purchase with your eyes open as to the
condition of the property and all its equipment and
systems. You will also have learned many things about
your new home from the inspector's written report, and
will want to keep that information for future reference.