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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a home inspection?
Why do I need a home inspection?
Is a home inspection expensive?
Why can't I do the inspection myself?
Can a house fail inspection?
Do home inspectors check for code compliance?
Does a home inspection constitute a warranty or guarantee?
Will further inspection be required?
When do I call in the home inspector?
Do I need to be there during the Inspection?
How long will the Inspection take?
Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?
What if the Inspection uncovers problems?
What is a home inspection? Back to top
A home
inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure
and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. The standard home
inspector's report will include an evaluation of the condition of the
home's structural system, electrical system, heating, ventilation, and
air conditioning systems, plumbing system, and appliances.
Having
a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or
symptoms are found, the inspector will refer you to the appropriate specialist
or tradesperson for further evaluation.
Why do I need a home inspection? Back to top
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
will also point 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, and will be able to make a confident buying decision.
If you have owned your home for a long time, a home inspection can identify problems in
the making and recommend preventive measures which might avoid costly
future repairs. In addition, home sellers may opt for having an inspection
prior to placing the home on the market to gain a better understanding
of conditions which the buyer's inspector may point out. This provides
an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling
condition.
Is a home inspection expensive? Back
to top
No. Visual inspections are quite reasonable. Sellers are often willing to pay for repairs, or
to renegotiate the purchase price, on the basis of the findings of a professional
home inspector. This can save the buyer much more than the cost of the
inspection.
Why can't I do the inspection myself? Back
to top
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.
Can a house fail inspection? Back
to top
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.
Do
home inspectors check for code compliance? Back
to top
Generally not. Building
codes are constantly being revised, and are very different from what they
were even ten years ago. No house built thirty years ago would pass present-day
building codes. This does not mean that older homes are necessarily unsafe.
The purpose of a home inspection is to determine the condition and safety
of a home, as it is at the present time, not whether it meets past or
present codes.
Does
a home inspection constitute a warranty or guarantee? Back
to top
No. A home inspection
is a professional opinion. Home warranty companies offer service contracts
that insure the performance of the various components of a house. The
buyer can purchase a home warranty directly from one of these companies,
or a seller can purchase one for the buyer as part of the real estate
transaction.
Will
further inspection be required? Back
to top
Maybe. A home inspector is a generalist. The inspector's knowledge and
experience are very broad and includes the ability to recognize hundreds
of conditions. The inspector does not hold a license in plumbing, electrical,
heating, soils engineering, hazardous materials testing, or other specialty
areas. Like a general-practice physician, a home inspector will sometimes
suggest further evaluation by a specialist. It is up to the buyer whether
or not to follow this suggestion. If the seller agrees to make repairs
at the buyer's request, the home inspector can, if the buyer wishes, return
to inspect these repairs after they've been completed.
When
do I call in the home inspector? Back
to top
A home inspector is typically called right after the contract or 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,
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.
Do
I need to be there during the Inspection? Back
to top
No, you aren’t required to be there for the inspection. But we highly
recommend that you be present. It’s a valuable learning experience
for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection.
By following the inspector you can ask questions directly and the inspector
can explain maintenance tips for specific areas. We feel you’ll be
able to best understand the finished report and get the most benefit from
it by having been there during the inspection.
How
long will the Inspection take? Back
to top
The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home.
For most homes, 3 hours is pretty typical. But for larger homes, or homes
in poor condition, it may take longer.
Does
a newly constructed home need an Inspection? Back
to top
Absolutely. A professional inspection of a new home is important. I can
spot potential problems early, while they are still easy to correct. It's
especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls
are finished. As a building professional, I may find problem areas where
the builder has taken shortcuts or has done sub-quality work.
What
if the Inspection uncovers problems? Back
to top
Our report will tell you the condition of the house, including needed
repairs and expenses. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to you
to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect your decision
to purchase. If major problems are discovered, you may want to try negotiating
with the seller to have them repaired before closing the deal. Or perhaps
the seller will lower the price, or offer more favorable contract terms.
In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about potential problems,
before you buy, gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.
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