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What is a home inspection?
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. The goal is to make the person purchasing the inspection more aware of the structures strengths, weaknesses and safety concerns. 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.
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Who needs a home inspection?
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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 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.
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When do I order the inspection?
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Is a home inspection expensive?
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.
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Why can't I do the inspection myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. 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.
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Can a house fail 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.
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Do home inspectors check for code compliance?
Generally no. 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.
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Does a home inspection constitute a warranty or guarantee?
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.
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Will further inspection be required?
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.
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How long will the inspection last?
Every property we inspect is different and the length of time for the inspection depends on the size and age of the property. Most inspections take around two hours.
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Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?
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.
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What if the Inspection uncovers problems?
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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What are the limitations of a home inspection?
Home inspections are visual only, and some problems may not be visible or they may be camouflaged or hidden. Home inspectors do not dismantle systems or components.
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What are the qualifications of a good inspector?
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Should I order a termite inspection?
Yes! Many mortgage companies require the test before you can close on your loan--and for good reason!!!! Research shows that termites cause over a billion dollars in damage annually to real estate property, more than storms and fires combined.
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What information will the inspector need before the inspection?
When you book an inspection with Safe At Home Inspections, LLC you will need to know the approximate square footage, age of home, age of furnace, and the address. You will also be asked if the home has a septic tank. Now is the time to let the inspector know about any special concerns you have about the home.
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