FAQ

An inspection is a visual examination of the structure and systems of a home.

A complete inspection includes a visual examination of the home from top to bottom. The inspector evaluates and reports the condition of the structure, roof, foundation, drainage, plumbing, heating system, central air-conditioning system, visible insulation, walls, windows, and doors. Only those items that are visible and accessible by normal means are included in the report.

No. A professional inspection is simply an examination of the current condition of your home or prospective real estate purchase. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection. An inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a home, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items will be in need of minor or major repairs or replacement.

As a Home Buyer, if the inspector finds problems in your prospective home, it does not necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy it, only that you will know in advance what type of repairs to anticipate. A seller may be willing to make repairs because of significant problems discovered by the inspector or may be willing to reduce the asking price. If your budget is tight, or if you do not wish to become involved in future repair work, you may decide that this is not the property for you. The choice is yours. As a Home Seller, if your pre-listing inspection reveals problems, it will allow you the opportunity to make repairs and shop for competitive contractors. The report can help you realistically price your home and permits you to attach repair estimates or paid invoices to the inspection report.

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

The purchase of a home is one of the largest single investments you will ever make. You should know exactly what to expect --- both indoors and out -- in terms of needed and future repairs and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic roof leakage problem or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector interprets these and other clues then presents a professional opinion as to the condition of the property so you can avoid unpleasant surprises afterward. Of course, an inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the type of maintenance needed 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 be able to make your decision confidently. As a seller, if you have owned your home for a period of time, an inspection can identify potential problems in the sale of your home and can recommend preventive measures which might avoid future expensive repairs.

Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected hundreds, and perhaps thousands of homes in their career. An inspector is equally familiar with the critical elements of construction and with the proper installation, maintenance and inter-relationships of these elements. Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the home they really want, and this may lead to a poor assessment.

It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is a good idea. By following the inspector through the inspection, observing and asking questions, you will learn about the new home and get some tips on general maintenance. This information will be of great help to you after you’ve moved in.