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WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?
A
Home inspection is a non-invasive visual examination of a residential
dwelling, performed for a fee, which is designed to identify observed
material defects within specific components of said dwelling.
Components may include any combination of mechanical, structural,
electrical, plumbing, or other essential systems or portions of
the home, as identified and agreed to by the Client and Inspector,
prior to or during the inspection process.
A home inspection is intended
to assist in evaluation of the overall condition of the dwelling.
The inspection is based on observation of the visible and apparent
condition of the structure and its components on the date of the
inspection and not the determination of future conditions.
A home inspection will not reveal
every problem that exists or ever could exist, but only those
material defects observed on the day of the inspection.
A Material defect is a problem
with a residential real property or any portion of it that would
have a significant adverse impact on the value of the property
or that involves an unreasonable risk to people on the property.
The fact that a structural element, system or subsystem is near,
at or beyond the end of the normal useful life of such a structural
element, system or subsystem is not by itself a material defect.
An Inspection report shall describe
and identify in written format the inspected systems, structures,
and components of the dwelling and shall identify material defects
observed. Inspection reports may contain recommendations regarding
conditions reported or recommendations for correction, monitoring
or further evaluation by professionals.
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 also points 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 house you are about to purchase.
If
you are already a homeowner, a home inspection may be used to
identify problems in the making and to learn preventive measures,
which might avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to
sell your home, you may wish to have an inspection prior to placing
your home on the market. This will give you a better understanding
of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer’s inspector,
and an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in
better selling condition.
WHAT
DOES IT INCLUDE?
The
standard home inspector’s report will review the condition
of the home’s heating system / air conditioning system,
interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and
visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors;
the foundation, basement, and visible structure. This does not
include cosmetic items (scratches, normal wear and tear, etc).
WHEN
DO I CALL THE HOME INSPECTOR?
A home inspector
is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement
has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However,
before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in
the sales contract, making your final 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. For a "pre-listing inspection" you should
call before you contract with a realtor to sell your house.
DO
I HAVE TO BE THERE?
It is not
necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is
recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask
questions directly, as you learn 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 first-hand through the inspector’s eyes.
WHAT
IF THE REPORT REVEALS PROBLEMS?
No house is
perfect. If the inspector identifies 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 adjust the
purchase price or make repairs if major problems are found. If
your budget is tight, or if you don’t wish to become involved
in future repair work, this information will be extremely important
to you.
HOW
LONG DO INSPECTIONS TAKE?
A typical
single-family home inspection will usually last about 2½
to 3 hours depending on the size and complexity of the home.
DO
NEW HOMES NEED AN INSPECTION?
New homes
are not without their problems. A home inspection will inform
you of issues that need to be corrected before you purchase your
dream home. Also, it is becoming much more common for many new
home buyers to have a home inspection prior to the end of their
one year warranty
COST?
IS IT WORTH IT?
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 pools/spas, crawls space, septic or well 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 experience, training, and professional
affiliations, should be the most important consideration.
WHAT
IS THE COST?
The
cost of the inspection will vary with the size and structure of
the home. An average home inspection fee varies from $275 to $375.
Call HomeFirst for a firm quotation prior to the inspection. Payment
is due at the time of the inspection. Visa, Mastercard, and American
Express are accepted. The inspector will also provide you with
maintenance tips. If you wish, a copy of the inspection report
will be emailed to your realtor.
Make
an easy & secure payment by
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