What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of readily accessible areas of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. A professional home inspector assists in maintaining the health of your home. A detailed home inspection typically takes two to three hours, depending on the age and size of the home. You should be present for a small portion of the inspection to ask any questions or for the inspector to provide information.

The standard home inspector's report will include an evaluation of the condition of:

- Structural components - Foundations, floors, and walls.

- Exterior components - Siding/paint, windows, decks, garage doors, etc.

- Roofing - Coverings, flashing, chimneys, etc.

- Plumbing - Piping, fixtures, faucets, water heating and fuel storage systems, etc.

- Electrical - Wiring, main service panels, conductors, switches, receptacles, etc.

- Heating - Equiment, safety controls, distribution systems, chimneys, etc.

- Air Conditioning/Heat Pumps - Coolin gand air handling equipment, controls, ducting, etc.

- Interior - Partitions, ceilings, floors, railings, doors, windows, etc.

- Insulation/Ventilation - Atticks, walls, floors, foundations, kitchen, bathroom, etc

The home inspector does not evaluate the home for cost or value, but reports objectively in writing the condition of the home's systems as they appear and operate at the time of the inspection.

Why do you need a Home Inspection?

The purchase of a home is typically the largest single investment a person makes. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy in order to minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards. A home inspection might also point out 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. Many buyers have saved literally thousands of dollars through information provided by a home inspector

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.

Every home will have issues on a home inspection - even new homes. There is no such thing as perfect. Home inspections are an important step in the buying process.

What defines a "qualified" home inspector?

One of the greatest challenges for homebuyers is to find a qualified home inspector. This is a daunting task in an industry where inspectors come and go weekly, and qualifications range from highly experienced and trained inspectors to those inspectors that have little or no experience or training. You might say it's a roll of the dice to find the right inspector!
You can feel comfortable selecting Michael to be your home inspector, and here’s why!

  • Michael is a professionally trained and state licensed inspector.
  • Michael has over 20 years of experience in the building industry.
  • Continued education requirements are exceeded every year, both in the building and inspection fields.
  • Education is passed onto the consumer at no extra charge.

Selling a home?

A pre-listing inspection provides you with powerful benefits:

  • Provides a “value added” benefit to your property with proof of the home’s condition.
  • Promotes assurance to your prospects that your home has been inspected by a professional.
  • Allows you time to decide to correct problems or adjust your sales price to reflect the estimated repairs or provide the information necessary to disclose the “as is” condition of your home, eliminating the negotiation of the sales price.
  • Real estate professionals can help you determine the fair listing price based on the true physical condition of the home, resulting in a quicker sale.

Blueprint

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 upon the size of the house, particular features of the house, its age, and possible additional services, such as septic, well, or radon testing. It is a good idea to check local prices on your own. However, 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 knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's qualifications, including his experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration.

Q. Can't I do it myself?

Not normally, an inspector needs to be licensed by the state to be an "official" inspection.  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 all the 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 judgement. For the most accurate picture, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

Q. What if I find problems after I move into my new home?

A home inspection is not a guarantee that problems won't develop after you move in. However if you believe that a problem was already visible at the time of the inspection and should have been mentioned in the report, your first step should be to call and meet with the inspector to clarify the situation. Misunderstandings are often resolved in this manner.

If necessary, you might wish to consult with a local mediation service to help you settle your disagreement. Though many home inspectors today carry Errors & Omissions liability insurance, litigation should be considered a last resort. It is difficult, expensive, and by no means a sure method of recovery.

 

Call us today for all of your inspection needs!

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