Home Inspection FAQs
Home Inspection Information - Fact or Fiction?
What Is A Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a professional, complete visual examination of all the systems and physical structural elements of a home. Emphasis is on identifying existing or potential problems that would affect a purchaser’s buying decision.
Why Is A Home Inspection Needed?
A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It makes sense to find out as much as possible about the house before buying it. With a home inspection report, costly surprise repairs and problems can be avoided or minimized. A report should also advise what maintenance is required to keep a home in top condition. A professional inspection will give a clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. When selling a home, a listing inspection will point out any potential problems that might be uncovered later by the buyer’s inspector. Finding them early will allow the seller to address them before listing a home, making for a faster and smoother sale.
What Does A Home Inspection Include?
A standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of the homes heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structures.
Does The Buyer or Seller Need To Be There During The Inspection?
No, they aren’t required to be there for the inspection but it is highly recommend that they be present. It’s a valuable learning experience for most people and will help get the most benefit from the inspection. By following the inspector, one can ask questions directly and the inspector can explain maintenance tips for specific areas. One will 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?
The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. For most homes, 1 1/2 to 2 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?
Absolutely! A professional inspection of a new home is important. One 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 building professionals, inspectors may find problem areas where the builder has taken shortcuts or not done good work.
Why Can’t The Buyer or Seller Do The Inspection Themselves?
Chances are that even if they are very familiar with home construction, they still don’t have the knowledge, training and experience of a professional Home Inspector. Inspectors are not only familiar with all the systems of a home and how they work and need to be maintained, but also know what warning signs to look for that tell that they are getting ready to fail. But beyond the technical expertise and experience a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector remains an impartial third party. If you are personally involved in buying or selling a house, it is impossible to remain completely unemotional about the house and this may cloud your judgment. The professional inspector will provide an objective outside reporting of the facts.
What If The Inspection Uncovers Problems?
A report will tell you the condition of the house. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to the buyer to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect a decision to purchase. In the end, the decision rests with the buyer but knowing about potential problems gives them the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.
Will The Home Inspector Fix Any Problems Found During The Inspection?
No. The code of ethics of The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) prohibits its members from doing repair work on properties they inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. The purpose is to provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home.
