FAQs
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a professional and complete visual examination of the all the systems and physical structural elements of your home. We look to identify existing or potential problems that would affect a purchasers buying decision.
Why do I need a Home Inspection?
A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house you are interested in before you buy. This will allow you to avoid potentially surprising and costly repairs. Our report will also advise you of what maintenance is needed to keep your home in the best possible condition. A professional inspection will give you a clearer picture of the systems and structural elements that make up your property. If you are selling your home, a listing inspection will point out any potential problems that might be brought to light later by the buyers inspector. Finding them early will allow you to address and fix them before listing your home, making for a faster and smoother sale.
What does a Home Inspection Include?
Our 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, perimeter, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structures. In almost all cases the electronic report will be available to you on the next day.
Do I need to be there during the Inspection?
No, you aren’t required to be there for the inspection. But we highly recommend that you be present. It’s a valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection by allowing us to go over potential problems with you. By attending the inspection you can ask questions directly and the inspector can explain preventive maintenance tips to you. We feel you’ll 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?
Generally, and depending on both the size and condition of the home, 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. We spot potential problems early, while they are still easy to correct.
Why Can’t I Do the Inspection Myself?
Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still don’t have the knowledge, training and experience of a professional Home Inspector. We’ve inspected thousands of homes. 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 involved in buying or selling a house, it’s impossible for you to remain completely unbiased about the house, and this may cloud your judgment. The professional inspector will provide an objective reporting of the facts and problems areas with your home.
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 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. 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.
Will You Fix the Problems You Find During the Inspection?
We can fix minor issues. Leaking shower heads, broken outlets, etc… We will let you know what needs to be done for more complex problems and in most cases recommend a professional to come take care of the issues uncovered.
Are You Licensed?
Absolutely. We are licensed and insured.