What is a home inspection?

An inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a building. If you are in the process of building a house, townhouse, or condominium, you should have it properly inspected before the final purchase by an experienced and impartial professional inspector.

What does an inspection include?

An inspection includes a visual examination of the building. During a standard inspection, the inspector evaluates and reports the condition of the foundation, grading/drainage, roof, roof structure, interior/exterior walls, ceiling, floors, doors, windows, fireplace/chimney, electrical systems, heating equipment, cooling equipment (temperature permitting), plumbing systems, water heating equipment, and built-in kitchen appliances. Only those items that are visible and accessible by normal means are included in the report

Can a house fail an inspection?

No. A professional inspection is simply an examination of the current condition of your house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal code inspection, which verifies local building code compliance. A professional inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house but will describe its current condition and report those items that are deficient.

Should I attend the inspection?

It is highly recommended that you attend the inspection. Attending the inspection will allow you to become more familiar with the home you are purchasing. Also, you can observe the inspector and ask questions while learning about the condition of the house.

Can I do the inspection myself?

Although you may be very handy, most home buyers and homeowners lack the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector. Professional inspectors have extensive training regarding what is acceptable and what needs to be further evaluated in the property. A professional inspector is familiar with the critical elements of construction and with the proper installation, maintenance, and inter-relations of these elements. Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the home they are considering, and this may lead to a poor assessment.

What will an inspection cost?

The inspection fee for a typical single-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Likewise, within a geographic area, the inspection feed charged by different inspection services may vary depending upon a number of factors such as size of the house, age of the home, particular features of the house. In general, a single-family home up to 2000 square feet will cost $650. This includes the home inspection report, a radon test, as well as a Wood Destroying Insect report. For just a home inspection of this size, the cost is $500. If you have any questions about cost, feel free to reach out.

When do I call an inspector?

The best time to retain the inspector is immediately after the purchase contract has been signed. A negotiated time period, referred to as the option, is when the inspection takes place. Any request for repairs has to be agreed upon and signed by all parties in the form of an amendment to the contract ON or BEFORE the expiration of the option period.

If the inspection report is favorable, did I really need an inspection?

Absolutely! Now you can complete your purchase with confidence about the condition of the property. You may have learned a few things about your home from the inspection report and will want to keep that information for future use. Above all, you can rest assured that you are making a well-informed purchase decision.