Home Inspection Frequently Asked Questions

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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 per TREC SOP. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical checkup. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector will refer you to the appropriate specialist or tradesperson for further evaluation.

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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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My inspections enable you to take control of your real estate transaction by helping you:

• Identify potential problems

• Survey the property's condition at the time of inspection

• Consider possible repairs and upgrades

• Take measure of your investment decision

• Experience confidence and peace of mind about your investment and any negotiations

 

Can't I do it myself?

Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. 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 judgment. For the most accurate picture, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

Do I need an Engineer or a Home Inspector?

You need a home inspector. When you hire a home inspector, you are hiring an experienced professional who has training and experience in the building industry. It is the job of the home inspector to not only evaluate the condition of the house's major systems and integrity, but also to evaluate how these systems are working together and identify areas that need to be watched, repaired or replaced.

Your home inspector gives you the Big Picture analysis of the house you are purchasing. If the home inspector identifies the need for a costly, detailed analysis of any of the house's systems or structures, the inspector will recommend the appropriate professional, which may be an experienced engineer with expertise analyzing that particular system or structure. The need for this kind of expensive, detailed analysis is rare.

Hiring a Professional Engineer on your own can be a disappointing experience. The term Professional Engineer does not mean that the individual has training or experience conducting home inspections. Additionally, a home inspection does not involve engineering analysis. Therefore, hiring a Professional Engineer to complete a home inspection undoubtedly costs more, but it may not give you the results you desire and deserve.

 

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 verities local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition at the time of inspection and indicate what may need repair or replacement.

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When do I call in the home inspector?

A home inspector is typically called right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed and the option period is entered. Be sure there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

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Do I have to be there?

It's not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is recommended that you attend the last 30 minutes of the inspection. By following the home inspector around the house, by observing and asking questions, you will learn a great deal about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain it. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you've seen the property firsthand through the inspector's eyes.

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What if the report reveals problems?

No house is perfect. If the inspector finds problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may be flexible with the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If your budget is very tight, or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.

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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.

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

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with peace of mind about the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned a few things about your new home from the inspector's report, and will want to keep that information for future reference. Above all, you can feel assured that you are making a well-informed purchase decision, and that you will be able to enjoy your new home the way you want to.

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Who can benefit from a home inspection?

• Anyone purchasing a new or previously owned home, regardless of how nice it looks or how good of a reputation the builder has. A home inspection will give you peace of mind about the condition of the property and all of its systems and components.

• Anyone who is considering selling their home. A 'pre-listing inspection' can alert you of problems in your house that you were not aware of allowing you time to make repairs prior to listing or disclose items that you are not willing to fix. As a seller, having your home inspected by the buyers' inspector can be very stressful because you know that the inspectors' findings can be used as grounds for backing out of the deal. It is better to know ahead of time rather that risk falling out of escrow because the buyers inspector found something that you weren't aware of.

• Anyone that has been in their new home for eleven months. A 'home warranty inspection' will let you know how your house is performing. Most builders provide their buyers with a one year warranty. Even if you had your house inspected when you bought it, a defect could have developed during the first eleven months that you are not aware of and finding before your warranty is up will save you money.

• Anyone who doesn't go into their attic and crawlspace at least once a year. A leak in a pipe or in the roof can begin at any time and often without any warning. If left undetected, a small leak that would have cost $75.00 to have repaired when it began can easily turn into a repair costing thousands. Your house, like your car needs routine maintenance. A home inspection is your first step towards knowing what you need to do to keep it running smoothly.

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If you fall into any of these categories, schedule an inspection today...it can save you thousands!