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Frequently Asked Questions About Home Inspections

If you are new to home buying, then you may be unfamiliar with the advantages of hiring a quality home inspector to uncover areas of concern. A quality home inspection will provide you with the information you need before you purchase a home. We hope that the following frequently asked questions will help to familiarize you with the home inspection process. As always, we are here to answer any questions you may have.

 

Please select one of the following topics:

When should you inspect your home?

What is a home inspection?

What does a home inspection include?

Why do I need a home inspection?

What will it cost?

Can I do it myself?

Can a house fail inspection?

How do I find a home inspector?

When do I call in the home inspector?

Do I have to be there?

What if the report reveals problems?

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

 

When should you inspect your home?

You should inspect a home if you are buying it. Purchasing a home is as much an emotional investment as a financial one, but missed problems can turn a dream home into a nightmare. With the help of an objective expert, make an informed decision regarding the biggest investment you will likely ever make. Is the charming slope in the floor a sign of structural failure? Know before you buy and are faced with unexpected expenses.

If you are SELLING a home Full disclosure: Demonstrate you did all you can to reveal any concerns within the home. Also, discover these areas before the buyer, and you can have your own cost estimates rather than dealing with a buyer's inflated estimates. Top

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. Top

What does a home inspection include?

The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report. Top

Why do I need a home inspection?

Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition. Top

What will it cost?

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide. Top

Can I do it myself?

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection. Top

Can a house fail a home inspection?

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not 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 components and systems may need major repair or replacement. Top

How do I find a home inspector?

You can ask friends or business acquaintances to recommend a home inspector they have used. Or, you can use the Find An Inspector search tool for a list of home inspectors in your area who belong to the non-profit professional organization. Also, real estate agents and brokers are familiar with the service and may be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose.

Whatever your referral source, you can be assured of your home inspector’s commitment to professional standards and business ethics by choosing one who has membership in InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors). Top

When do I call in the home inspector?

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated. Top

Do I have to be there?

While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it. Top

What if the report reveals problems?

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs. Top

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

Absolutely, now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report, and will have that information for future reference. Top

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