Home Inspections

Every person has mastered the art of inspecting things. Whether it has something to do with trade or not, inspection becomes innate in every transaction. Bet you would not even buy a pair of shoes just by doing visual inspection. Even that is not enough to push you in buying the item. Normally, you would ask for your size and try to fit in order to determine its comfort and beauty. If it satisfies you, that is the only time you find the worth of buying the shoe.

Inspection is crucial in simple transaction like the one stated above. But what you should realize is its importance in making major purchases such as home buying. This kind of transaction involves a lot of money. Moreover, when you engage in matters like this, you want to make sure you are not for loss. And inspection is the key to be reassured of this.

Your home is one of the most expensive purchase you can make in your entire life. If you plan to make it your primary home, it is important that the property you buy is livable. In addition, you should be able to maintain its worth without incurring too many expenses on your part. You want to buy a home and get savings, not buy a home and get ripped-off.

Therefore, if you care so much about getting home of good value, home inspection should be done.

Why do you need home inspection

You already have a bird's eye view on why a home inspection is crucial for every home buyer. However, in this section, you will get a good sense of why it is needed and why people pay for it despite the additional cost.

1. You cannot be fooled by outer looks of the property. With the help of professional inspector, you can uncover defects of the home that were heavily concealed by the owners.

2. The existence of defects will put you in a better position to negotiation an offer. You can demand the owner for repairs before you proceed with the purchase or you can shoulder it in exchange for lowering the purchase price.

3. If there are defects uncovered, the report generated can be used as an evidence to be able to get out of the purchase agreement. There may be times a seller would play hardball in negotiating. If you feel the terms of the contract is not met, you can bail out without being sued.

4. Home inspection will give you an idea on how comfortable living in the property will be. Inspectors usually check out the major components of the house. From here, you will also be able to ascertain the safeness of the place.

5. The results of inspection will give you a peace of mind that the property you will be buying is a good investment for the years to come. Moreover, you can even save yourself for expending thousands of dollars for unseen problems.

Do not be a fool by missing out home inspections. Do not think you can save money by eliminating this process. You can only save yourself from future liabilities if do this activity. Just remember to hire reputable and experienced inspectors to be assured of quality inspections.

Before making an offer on a home, nearly all real estate experts recommend conducting extensive inspections. Home inspections are designed to protect you from unexpected repairs and costs after move-in. If any problems are found during a pre-sale inspection, the buyer can then negotiate with the seller to have the issues resolved before closing or incorporate the cost of repairs into the offer. By assuring the buyer that they are purchasing the best home for their money, home inspections are an invaluable resource in the home buying process.

In most cases, home inspections analyze a number of factors both inside and outside the home. We begin with the six most critical inspection concerns for the exterior of the home.

Foundation - The most important thing to check for in the foundation are cracks. If any cracks or irregularities are noticed in the foundation, a further inspection may be needed to check the integrity of the construction.

Roof - When the roof is inspected, it must first be determined if any leaks are present. If the roof is free of leaks, a proper inspection will then attempt to determine if the roof possesses any flaws that could cause leaks in the future. During inspection, it is also important to notice if any large trees hang over the home. Wet leaves from such trees can sometimes cause serious problems for homeowners.

Drainage - The most important thing to consider is how the home is situated on the property. To ensure adequate drainage and prevent flooding in the home, the surrounding land should slope away from the home and 6-8 inches of the concrete foundation should be visible. Additionally, all gutters and drainage spouts should be angled away from the home.

Windows and Doors - Besides looking for broken glass, a check of the windows should cover many factors. Ideally, all windows should open and close properly with a good seal, be free of rot around the window sills and have all screens intact. Similarly, all doors opening to the exterior should open and close properly with a good seal to prevent extra heating and cooling costs.

Siding, Trim, Gutters and Paint - An inspection of the exterior siding or paint should check for the presence of bubbling or peeling. Also, all exterior fixtures that do not impact the structural integrity - such as ornamental trim and rain gutters - should be checked for overall condition.

Decks and Porches - If the home has a deck or porch, the inspection will try to uncover the presence of rot or insect damage.

Now, we will look at six factors that should be thoroughly inspected within the interior of the home.

Walls, Floors and Ceilings - All walls, floors and ceilings inside the home should be checked for the presence of water damage - usually present as mold or other stains - and signs of insects or pests. The areas near plumbing fixtures should be given extra attention to check for mold and water damage, while gaps or cracks in exterior walls should be checked for the presence of insects. Lastly, all wall and floor surfaces - such as paint, plaster, wood floors, tile bathrooms and carpet - should be checked for overall condition.

Appliances - Typically, home inspectors will run one dishwasher cycle and check all functions of the oven and stove. If the home is being sold with a full set of appliances, it is wise to check the working order of refrigerators, washers, dryers and microwaves.

Electrical, Heating and Cooling Systems - These inspections of the home's infrastructure are some of the most telling assessments of a property's quality and, by extension, value. An inspection of the electrical system will typically test all outlets, light fixtures and circuit breakers. If it is an older home, an inspection should look for updated features such as ground fault interrupt (GFI) outlets in the bathrooms and kitchen. When checking heating and cooling systems, inspectors typically test the furnace, monitor the response of the thermostat and assess the overall ventilation of the home.

Plumbing - The inspection of the plumbing system begins with a check for leaks around all fixtures and pipes. Next, both cold and hot water pressure should be tested by turning on multiple faucets. In the bathrooms, the areas around each bathtub and shower should be inspected for water damage. Lastly, try to ensure that the hot water heater is up to code and functioning properly.

Basement - If the home has a basement, the most important thing to check for is the presence of water damage. An inspection of the basement is primarily an extension of the previously mentioned check for walls, floors and ceilings.

Chimney and Fireplace - An inspection of the chimney and each fireplace will check for loose bricks and mortar, assess the overall stability and check for obstructions within the chimney.

Keep in mind, if an inspection uncovers a problem, you should not necessarily be deterred from buying the home. More than anything, the inspection will help you determine the value of the home and prevent you from overpaying or experiencing unwanted repairs. Depending on what is uncovered during the inspection, you may want to conduct an additional inspection of the problematic element or simply work with the seller to resolve the issue as part of your offer.

Recently a very ugly real estate story demonstrated the importance of a home inspection when buying houses for sale in Toronto or Mississauga real estate for sale.

After several months of searching for a home and a few disappointments along the way a young couple found what they thought was their dream home.

An offer conditional upon a home inspection was arrived at after some negotiation.

Since the house was only 6 years old everyone including the sellers expected the home inspection to be merely a formality revealing no major deficiencies.

Big surprises for all were to follow!

The inspection started on the exterior with no major problems found.

Moving to the interior things started to unravel slowly but steadily.

Meter readings in the house revealed higher than normal humidity levels in the house.

It was discovered that a part had been removed from the humidifier attached to the furnace resulting in it running constantly.

Further inspection in the basement led to the discovery of hooks screwed into the ceiling beams.

This looked innocent enough but the quantity of hooks led to some head shaking as to what may have hung on them.

A hole punched in the wall under the circuit breaker box along with a water hook up in an unusual place led to suspicions that the house may have been used for the growth of illegal drugs.

A fertilizer stain was uncovered by a weak attempt to try to hide it by partially painting the floor with grey paint.

Further evidence was found where a metal flange had been removed and a secondary exhaust created and run up through a main floor closet to a second floor bedroom closet and up to the attic.

Inspection of the attic found mould above the spot where the secondary exhaust had been.

Although the house did not appear on any law enforcement list as being a grow-op house it was the strong opinion of the home inspector that illegal drugs had been manufactured in the house at some point.

While there was definitely mould in the attic there were no visible signs of it in the basement.

This is where a thermal imaging home inspection would have been invaluable.

Using an infra-red camera a thermal imaging inspection would have revealed the presence of mould or spores if they were in fact there.

The buyers naturally decided to walk away from the home.

The sellers, a nice couple with 3 young children who did not fit the stereotype of drug dealers were shocked and dismayed.

Dismayed because they were the original owners of the house and of course swore no knowledge of these events.

Looking back to when they purchased the house from the builder, they had been unable to close on time because they had not yet sold the previous house they lived in.

The builder offered to delay the closing if they agreed to allow renting the house for a 6-9 month period giving them time to sell their previous home.

The speculation is that during this rental period the house was used for illegal drug growth.

The buyers are happy that their investment in a home inspection likely saved them thousands of future dollars and certainly a great deal of headache.

So the next time you are being pressured to delete the home inspection clause or are tempted to not include one for fear of losing the house......think again.

If you feel disappointed remember this ugly real estate story.

You'll soon get over it.

Home inspection is an important process of getting a suitable home with the help of an agency or a home inspector or on your own. Inspection is actually a process of evaluating a home with the intent of finding any defects or problems in the home. It helps both home sellers and buyers to get the best. A home seller thus gets a good value of its property and a home buyer can have a dream home of its own of actual worth.

Home inspection is usually done by hiring good and skilled professionals from a reputed agency. But it's not mandatory to have your home inspected by a hired professional. Do it yourself and it is also quite effective. A person having interest and knowledge in this stream is capable of carrying home inspection on its own. It needs a good knowledge of both people and things. If you have interest in matters related to property and have prior experience in it, then there no need to hire any professional. You can yourself start home inspection.

Before making a start for inspection, make sure that you have a properly generated home inspection checklist. This checklist comprises of all the details regarding inspecting the parts of the home. You can easily get a sample or demo of this checklist online and thus make sure to get one while inspecting as it's sure that you can skip out some parts without a checklist. Always carry a notepad and make notes while making inspections.

Once you are done with the inspection and have satisfactorily gone through all the portions internal as well as external, prepare a final inspection report on the basis of the notes. This final report gives the final outlook of the home structure and takes your attention towards the areas that need more care and repairs. Thus, a Do it yourself Home Inspection has a benefit, as you need not require making any extra expense to hire any professional and you are satisfied with the performance of your dream home.

A home inspection is a good idea and often a requirement when buying or selling a home. For a home buyer, an inspection can possibly save money on repairs while for a home seller, it can help ensure a sale.

A good home inspector will examine a home thoroughly, from top to bottom and inside out. They are generalists who need to know the many components and systems in a home and how they work.

Depending on the size of the home inspected, a home inspection usually takes two to four hours. Below are things you should expect during a home inspection.

1. A home inspector takes note of the age of the home structure, damage and possible damage and also suggests effective solutions to help the house ready for the market.
2. Inspect the home exterior and the building foundation, exterior home walls, roof support structure, roof flashings, coverings and gutters and the garage.
3. The inspector will also inspect the home interior such as the attic, electrical, insulation quality, central heating air and heating system, door, windows, plumbing system, water heaters and appliances.
4. Any crawlspace and the basement will also be inspected.

Since a home inspector will not remove any items although they are obstructing the inspection, thus a seller should remove all items on the windowsill or directly in front of the fireplace and ensures that nothing blocks the electrical panel.

Furthermore, ample space needs to be provided to be able to check out the water heater and the furnace. For a crawl space, make sure to clear the access.

The home inspector will not reset a tripped circuit breaker or a water heater that is turned off. If these have been intentionally done, make sure to leave a note for the inspector.

Home inspectors do not perform any destructive testing and neither do they have X-ray visions, thus you should not expect the reports to include the condition of every single nail in the house, pipe or wire in the home.

His or her primary concern is pointing out safety-related problems or adverse conditions instead of cosmetic or small items, which are considered readily obvious to home buyers.

An inspection is not a code of compliance and the inspector does not inspect unreachable areas in the home. Furthermore, a home buyer should not expect a home inspector's report to serve as a guarantee that the components of the home will never need repair or will never fail at some point later on.

You will receive a report from the home inspector a few days after the home inspection is done. Most often, there will be a summary of the important items discovered. A long list of items discovered is normal, thus, you should not worry about it. This can help you identify in advance what to expect.

Keep in mind that no house is perfect, no matter how grand it is. There is always a solution to every problem. Houses all need regular repair and maintenance every now and then.

CAHPI: Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors
Designations:
Associate
Registered Home Inspector (RHI)

CanNACHI: Canadian National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
Designations:
Associate
Certified Master Home Inspector (CMHI)

InterNACHI: International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
Designations:
Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)
Certified Master Inspector (CMI)

Alberta NACHI: Alberta chapter of InterNACHI
Designations:
Certified Canadian Home Inspector (CCHI)

Wow, that's a mouth-full and probably not very helpful. Suffice to say that not all designations are equal nor do all qualify for a license from the government of Alberta. I encourage you to compare the criteria for the RHI and CMHI designations to others, I consider either designation to be difficult to obtain, and hence a desirable trait for anyone conducting a home inspection in Calgary.

Alberta home inspectors are not required to belong to any professional association, membership is completely voluntary. Memberships are not free, some associations require on going education and have policies encouraging members to attend meetings and work with stake holders to improve the industry. Other associations focus more on marketing and helping members in Calgary to expand their business.

Each of these associations publish a Standards of Practice (SOP) and Code of Ethics (COE) which spell out in great detail what a home inspection includes, what it does not, and how members should conduct themselves. The SOP and COE help to protect consumers by ensuring that home inspectors are held to a standard, if the SOP says that a representative number of electrical receptacles are to be inspected, then it darn well better get done! If the COE says that an home inspector can not make repairs to home that he has inspected, he better not be offering handyman services during the home inspection!

I sincerely hope that the days of a poorly trained, fly by night, 2 hour home inspection in Calgary is long gone, replaced by people who consider themselves professionals taking pride in helping potential home buyers gain a solid understanding of the home they are considering. Mike Holmes and his television show tend to give us a bad rap however it has raised the profile of the industry which is a good thing. Everyone inspecting homes in Airdrie should step up their game and do all they can to be thorough, complete and unbiased.

A home inspection professional is a generalist which can be likened to a family doctor. The goal is to identify significant defects and refer specific diagnosis, causes and methods of repair to licensed trades people. Although your family doctor may be a great doctor, they may not be the best choice to perform your operation, same line of thinking for Chestermere home inspectors. A licensed plumber would probably take at least an hour to go through a house at a cost of well over $100. Multiply that figure by the 12 systems contained in the SOP and you can soon see why a 4 hour, $500 home inspection is really a great deal and only one person to schedule!

One of the most important aspects of a home purchase is having a home inspection. A home inspection is crucial because it is your line of defense. A thorough home inspection may open your eyes to very expensive problems and provide the information that you need to make informed decisions about the house that you are thinking about buying.

As a purchaser you need to get as much information as you can about your potential house purchase. A properly performed inspection will take around 2-1/2 too 3 hours to perform. The cost of a good home inspector will range from $450 to $650 dollars depending on the area of the county that you live in. Home inspections in the northeast tend to be more expensive then those performed in the middle sections of the country.

The inspection report will provide information about the systems in the home as well as the defects and problems that are found in the home. A good inspection report will be narrative and clearly state the problems that exist in the home. The inspection report will also state the possible ramifications if the problems or defects are not repaired. The inspection will also describe all of the visible safety defects in clear language.

The home inspection may provide the buyer with the potential for re-negotiation with the seller. Although not its main purpose, if the inspection uncovers problems it often leads to a discussion or renegotiation of the purchase price. A good home inspection in most cases will pay for itself in terms of concessions from the seller and in peace of mind to the buyer of the property. You may be able to ask for corrective actions to be performed, credits back or you may be able to walk away from the transaction if more then expected problems are found in the home.

Some of the systems that will be inspected are the heating, air conditioning (provided it is warm enough), electrical, plumbing, roofing, chimney, basement, garage, attic, exterior, structure, foundation, windows, doors, walls, ceilings, flooring, ventilation, and insulation. Most home inspections will also include radon testing and wood destroying insect inspection as well.

The are some limitations to a home inspection. It is not a code inspection. The home inspector will not be able to comment on whether or not the structure and the systems in the home meet current codes. A home inspection is not a warranty. A home inspector can not foresee all unexpected breakdowns and malfunctions. Systems and components can fail without warning. You may want to consider purchasing a home warranty which may provide you with a greater peace of mind after you move into the home. An inspection is limited to the visual and accessible components only. The home inspector will not be able to inspect or comment on the hidden components in the home.

As with anything an inspection does have some limitations. But a properly performed and thorough inspection can bring to light many problems that you are not aware of and may save thousands of dollars in the long run. An inspection is too much of an important step in the buying process to forgo.

When you list your home, you have to realize the potential buyers are going to look over your home in great detail. And, if they like what they see, more than likely they will hire a professional home inspector.

Many Realtors today are recommending to their home SELLERS, to have a home inspection, before the BUYER comes into the picture. And for good reason, statistics will show homes that have had a pre-inspection before the listing, have sold faster, because they are cleaner, and the buyer has more confidence in the condition of the home especially if the seller is willing to have their own home inspected.

A seller that does his own home inspection will learn of any hidden defects that may exist, and has the opportunity to do any repairs that may turn up.

One does not have to be an expert to diagnose many problems found in a home, and most repairs have do it yourself remedies.

A big help and selling point for sellers is to have your completed inspection report available for buyers when they walk through your home. If there is a Realtor representing the buyer, let the Realtor know about your report and where it will be in your home, when they do their walk through. Reading this report is valuable to the potential buyer and shows you are up front with the home and it's condition. In the finished report, it will show defects. If they have been repaired, it is suggested to give them that update as well.

There are many "do-it-yourself" inspections available. Most of these reports will only give you a checklist to fill out. It is strongly recommended to purchase a report that gives you instruction on how to perform an inspection on the any of the many components one will find in the home as well as a check list summary page for your evaluation.

Through the years we have become complacent. We tend to take people's word on the validity on many things such as conditions of a vehicle, the ripeness of a fruit, even the comfort of shoes. We do in fact become gullible in taking the word of another person and more often than not end up on the short end of the stick.

When going over the residential purchase contract, a question I'm asked every time is whether or not my buyer should request a home inspection. My obvious answer is a solid, "Yes!" When it comes to one of the biggest investments money can buy it is essential to request a home inspection. Yes, the inspection might cost a few hundred dollars but what you achieve at the end of the buying process is peace of mind. Let's not forget that in this world you have both honest people and people who are just shy of actually speaking the truth.

Let's imagine for a minute that you have found the perfect home and you want to immediately offer the asking price. We go through the residential purchase paperwork and you decide to decline a home inspection due to the fact that this is your ideal home. It includes everything you've hoped for. The home looks remodeled, the exterior has been repainted, the interior has been upgraded with top of the line fixtures and the new underground pool in the backyard is going to be perfect for your summer family reunions. Because of the excitement of finding your perfect home you don't expect anything to go wrong.

Thirty days later after the acceptance of your offer and once escrow has closed you receive your house keys. "This place is great," you think to yourself. After a few months of moving in you start noticing that in the bathroom wall behind the toilet in the master bedroom is starting to show mold. Thinking it's an easy fix you quickly clean the wall with warm water and vinegar and call it a day. A few days later the spots re-appear but this time the mold seems to have spread farther and thicker. You feel that this might not be normal so you decide to call your handyman and he suggests that you might be better off calling a mold inspection company.

Three months after move in you have a mold inspector come to your residence and you expect him to handle the problem fairly easy. After his initial inspection, he reports to you that the problem lies beyond the mold only being on the exterior surface of the wall but that he will need to tear down a quarter of your bathroom due to the mold infestation spreading because of a water pipe leakage under the master bathroom underneath the home. The total cost after a tear down and repair? $16,000. You surely wish you would have purchased the home inspection for $400, correct? You sit there and think this could have been prevented with a simple home inspection.

Inspection reports give you detailed analysis for possible problems such as: foundation cracks, out of date materials, cracks within the pool frame, roof leaks, visible mold in and out of the inspected premise, exposed electrical wiring and outlets that might pose a fire risk (just to name a few).

The truth is, when it comes to investing in a home, whether it's your first or third; never let your guard down on making sure that all your perimeters are covered. Home inspections are essential to any buyer. Not only does an inspection report inform you of current problems but it also outlines problems that may arise at a later time.

Whatever your next move may be in real estate, always asks for a property inspection. Remember, real estate in itself is a gamble so you have to play your cards right. You don't want to be a victim and move into a recently purchased property only to find out that you will have to pay out of pocket for repairs that could have been foreseen with an inspection report.

*Note from the author:

If you have general questions about home inspections or real estate you can contact me by email at: rickvelasquez@luxuryinla.com

You can also visit my website at http://www.LuxuryInLA.com

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Buying a home usually is the largest single investment you will ever make and you have to be able to cut through the sales hype and real estate terminology to know if the home you are considering is worth the investment. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you'll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it and a buyer typically gets that information with a home inspection.

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation and detailed in an inspector's report. The standard home inspector's report will cover the condition of the home's heating system; central air conditioning system interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and all major structural components.

Home inspections are as applicable to newly constructed homes as they would be to an existing one, as a home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights or shoddy workmanship, as well as the need for maintenance to keep the house in good shape. After the inspection is completed, you will know more about the house you are interested in buying, which will allow you to make a purchasing decision with confidence.

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. However, before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically throughout the United States and very often varies depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing if it is required in the local real estate market and by state law. The typical home inspection price range in Southern California is between $200 to $450 depending on the size of the house and amount of detail required in the report.

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. An inspector's fee is usually nominal when you compare it to the amount of potential financial outlay for major repairs you potentially would have had to shell out after you had purchased the home. The sense of security and knowledge gained from the home inspection is well worth the cost, so be wary of hiring an inspector based solely on price as the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector's qualifications, including his experience, training, compliance with your state's regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.

And what should you do if the home inspection finds problems? If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't mean you should or shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect and whether some of the items found can be negotiated with the seller. If your budget is tight, or if you don't want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you as to whether you will go forward with the purchase of the home. Furthermore, if major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs and or adjust the final sale price of the house to reflect the repairs needed.

However, even if the home inspection doesn't find any major problems, other than general wear and tear, a homeowner will know for certain and have the security that his or her home purchase was a worthwhile one!

Are you a first time home buyer searching daily through lists of homes for sale? I am sure you have thought about the cost of a new house, what colors you would like on the walls, how many bedrooms and bathrooms you would like to have and other elements such as these. But let me ask if you have thought about hidden problems with your new home.  As an Atlanta home inspector, I find that very often this is one of the furthest things from your mind, as a buyer your more focused on the things above.  That's great because being observant about your future house condition is the job of a certified inspector.

Regardless of whether you are purchasing new construction or an existing home for sale it is imperative you have it inspected by a certified Georgia home inspector. A home inspector will look for and recognize possible problem spots with your home even if it is new construction.  Can you imagine yourself up in the attic with the itchy fiberglass trying to inspect the trusses and other systems a home inspector should inspect? Are you planning on crawling around in the dust of the crawl space like a home inspector would do? How about the roof, do you plan to get on a ladder and walk every square of the roof to inspect for potential problems?  Most folks don't even think about these things.  I've ran across to many creepy crawly things in both the attic and the in the crawlspace, that would cause most people to have a bad day.

The cost of a home inspection from a certified Georgia home inspector is very small when compared to the potential cost of troubles a simple inspection might uncover.  I don't know if you have checked the prices on a new roof or even roof repairs lately, but I just had mine replaced and it ran nearly $15,000.  That's a pretty big price to pay out simply because you didn't get the house checked out. Before you agree to purchase your next home do yourself a great big favor and order a home inspection by a certified Atlanta area home inspector.  You will be glad you did in the long run. 

Home inspections are performed for various reasons. You may be selling a home or just looking to find new insurance. Your home must be in top form if you plan on having an inspector look it over. Even the smallest details can affect the outcome of an inspection. Inspectors are trained to spot problems in the earliest stages of development. Dividing your home into the following sections may help you in finding things that should be fixed before having an inspector come to your home.

Exterior

The exterior of your home includes the roof, siding, windows, foundation and garage. Exterior doors and windows should be checked to make sure they seal properly. Broken or missing pieces of siding should be repaired, in addition to some areas of the roof or sidewalk. If your home has a chimney, make sure it is properly ventilated. The yard should be mowed and trimmed as well. Mulch or gravel should be moved away from the base of the foundation.

Interior

Inside the home, all electric appliances and outlets should be in good working order. The main electrical box should be easily accessible. All of the plumbing should work as well. It is always a good idea to have the home clean and free of clutter. Home inspections are not a contest to see who has the cleanest home, but it is helpful if the inspector does not have to move items or boxes when checking out various fixtures.

Cracks in walls and ceilings should be repaired prior to a home inspection. In some cases, it might be beneficial to paint the walls in high traffic rooms to remove fingerprints or marks. Always sweep and mop the floors as well, so the condition of the floor is visible.

Crawlspace/Basement/Attic

As part of every home inspection, the attic, basement or crawlspace will be thoroughly checked. Always make sure there is proper ventilation and that all external vents are free of debris. Insulation should be properly installed and located away from vents. Basements and crawl spaces should be dry, with any leaks being repaired prior to the inspection. Electrical wiring should be in good working order and properly secured.

HVAC System

Your home's heating and cooling system should be fully functional. All filters and vents should be changed or cleaned per the instructions for the unit. Cleaning the duct work may also be beneficial. Thermostats should be operational and easily accessible during the inspection. Most inspectors will have you turn on the furnace and the central air unit to make sure both are working properly. If you have had your HVAC system upgraded or serviced, you may want to include a copy of the invoice so the inspector can put it in with his records.

Home inspections are not performed very often. When they do need to be done, they can give you insight as to what may need to be repaired in your home. It also gives you a fairly good idea as to the value of your home and the quality of its construction. Before calling the inspector and scheduling an appointment, make sure you go over your home thoroughly and fix anything that may detract from its overall value. Doing this is in your best interest as it will make your home more desirable to buyers.

I am asked many times what are the things you should do to prepare your home when putting it up for sale. Before you even begin to stage the property for potential buyers you should consider having a home inspection. If you have the knowledge you can perform your own inspection, if not it's best to hire a professional home inspector.

In many cases you buyer will sign a sales agreement with the sale being contingent upon a home inspection. The home inspection is paid for by the buyer in this case. The home inspection is intended to find what is referred to as "major defects" with your property. A home inspection can sometimes make or break a good deal.

I believe that in most cases it is also in the best interest of you the seller, to have and pay for your own home inspection performed by a licensed inspector before you place the property on the market for sale. You are certainly not looking to completely remodel your home, but there are potential problems that you may not even be aware of that would have a direct impact on the offer your buyer would make. A few hundred dollars spent now having these minor problems repaired before you place your home on the market can give you that little edge over competing properties, and possibly get you a better selling price.

So let's go through the home inspection process so you know what to expect, and what things you can do ahead of time to make a buyers home inspection a non issue for you the seller. Having these potential problems repaired before you place your home on the market can also give your property that little edge over competing properties for sale in your price range.

A home inspectors job is to find potential problems with your property that they would consider to be issues of concerns to the buyer. They will inspect your home room by room and the exterior of your home as well. A lot of the items that a home inspector covers are items that you or your home inspector can cover and can be corrected before you sell your property.

Landscaping: Make sure that all shrubs and trees are cut back from the house, gutters and roof. Curb appeal is crucial, remember your buyer views the outside of your property before they ever enter your home. First impressions can have a huge impact on the buyers attitude.

Exterior: Make sure your gutters are free of debris and that all gutters and downspouts are working properly. Remove any moss or mildew that has grown on the brick or siding of your home.

Exterior door jams: With a screwdriver check the bottoms of exterior door jambs for damage from water. If you find soft wood it should be replaced and painted.

Roof: The age and condition of your roof can add or deduct from the value of your property depending on it's condition. If your roof has missing shingles, curled shingles or is over twenty five years old you should seriously consider replacing it.

Heating and Cooling: A home inspector will check your furnace and air conditioning to make sure that it is free from defects. They will check the natural gas lines that feed the furnace for leaks.

Water Heater: Your water heater will be checked for proper ventilation of carbon monoxide, gas leaks if it is a gas water heater, and for water leaks or water stains.

Electrical: The inspector will check your electrical fuse box to make sure that it is the proper size and is wired according to your local code. They will also check the the electrical feed to your meter on the outside of your home for signs of weathering. You should also be aware of your local building codes in regards to GFI's (Ground fault interrupters) These are special AC outlets with their own breaker. In newer homes they are required in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, or any where water is or could be present.

Interior doors: Check that all interior doors are squeak free and that all doors close and latch properly.

Plumbing: Dripping faucets, leaking drain traps, slow drains, loose toilets, leaking toilets are all items that would be covered in a home inspection. Look for a build up of calcium around shut off valves and drains. These types of stains indicate either an active leak or a leak that was there in the past. They should be repaired or replaced.

Basement/Garage: A home inspector will look for signs of water damage and mold in any basements or sub floors.

A home inspection should cost you in the range of $300 to $400 dollars and will take three to four hours for the entire process. Your real estate agent should be able to recommend a reliable licensed home inspector.

As well as correcting problems found by you or your home inspector, there are some other items you should consider before placing your home on the market. I will cover these in my next article of this series.

Everyone has had some personal experience with an inspector of some sort. When we get a medical examination the medical professional is giving us an evaluation of our health by checking certain physical aspects of our body, much like an inspector. Their evaluation can be critical in determining our health and future performance. Home inspections for home sellers is just as important, and skipping a home inspection can be just as critical. And just like a patient getting a second opinion from another medical professional, rest assured, a prudent home buyer will most likely acquire their own professional inspection before they buy the home, and this is almost certain if they are getting an FHA or VA loan.

There can always be hidden problems the home seller is unaware of, and problems that are costly, even in new homes, much like there are sometimes hidden problems the medical professional can spot even when the patient doesn't know the problems exist. This is why the home seller should seek the services of a qualified inspector with experience, a certified inspector who takes their job seriously and doesn't cut corners. A certified inspector will let you know whether the home is in its best physical shape possible, if it needs extra repair and even an estimation of the cost of the repairs.

Of course, no home is perfect and every house will a have few glitches here and there, but early inspections will inform the owner about repairs needed in advance so that the owner can either fix the repairs, or so they can be forthright with the buyer about the issue before any additional inspections are made. A home inspection will not only inform the seller (and buyer) in advance of any issues, but also set a positive precedence and help earn the home seller a trustworthy reputation with the buyer.

The types of things the inspector looks for are defects that affect the value of the home, make it unsafe or less livable. A leaky roof, a damp basement, plumbing or electrical problems and other defects are some of the issues that can be turned up by a good inspector and often missed by the home seller. General inspections typically consist of:

• Heating system

• Central air conditioning system

• Interior plumbing

• Electrical systems

• Roof

• Attic

• Visible insulation, walls, ceilings, and floors

• Windows and doors

• Basement

• Foundation and all other structural components.

Sometimes there might be additional or specialized home inspections for home sellers that might require additional inspections a general inspector may not cover. The ASHI, for example, is not required to check for organisms that destroy home fixtures or diseases harmful to humans, such as molds or other substances. There's also no surefire way the home seller can always find the perfect inspector for the job, or even be sure of their credentials.

National Association of Certified Home Inspectors, Inc. (InterNACHI) has the resources that can be invaluable to a home seller. Inspectors who are members of the InterNACHI and other associations must meet strict membership requirements and qualifications, including experience, training, professional affiliations and compliance with their state's regulations. Starting with associations like InterNACHI is a great idea for home sellers, and can assure that the home seller can hire the right Home Inspector and know the general principles, processes and requirements of a professional home inspection.

Buying a brand new home is one of the most expensive investments that many of us will ever make. An investment so important should be thoroughly inspected by a quality home inspection company before the final papers are signed. Hiring a professional home inspection team can help home buyers be assured that they are making a worthwhile decision on their new home purchase.

According to a recent news article published in April of 2013, Atlanta's real estate market has seen its highest growth in sales since the early 1990's. Home values have gone up 16.5% within the course of a year which is great news for both buyers and sellers. Buyers currently living in the Atlanta area or those who hope to move there soon should take advantage for this good news and begin browsing Atlanta homes that are currently for sale. Once a home is selected, the buyers should consult with a home inspection company in the Atlanta area.

Atlanta home inspection companies that have been accredited by the Better Business can assure customers of the longevity of good service provided by the vendor. However, with the convenience of iPads and mobile devices, potential customers can do an online search for an Atlanta home inspection company and receive anonymous reviews from previous customers. There are several Atlanta home inspection providers in the metro area including the Marietta, Cartersville and Norcross regions. In addition, it's a wise idea to check with your real estate agent. Ask if they are familiar with a specific home inspection company in Atlanta, and if they would recommend using their services. Many Atlanta real estate agents trust their recommended vendors, so they are going to help you select a company that hold a great reputation and provides excellent services.

Real estate inspection companies employ a variety of specialized inspectors that can provide a variety of services to concerned home buyers. For a standard home inspection, inspectors will evaluate electrical issues, inspect home systems such as central heating and air, analyze the roof, check the structural soundness of the foundation, evaluate the plumbing system, look inside the attic, and check the basement and crawl spaces for any problems or issues. But, before hiring a professional an inspector to do a property inspection, make sure that the company is insured so that you will not be responsible if any accidents or injuries were to occur during the inspection. Before the day of the home inspection, you should write down any questions or concerns that you may have about the home so that you will have them on hand to discuss with the inspector. Also, make sure that all areas of the home are easily accessible. For instance, if the entrance to the attic is through a closet, all clothes, boxes and other belongings should be removed from the area.

Purchasing a new home in a booming city like Atlanta can be an exciting and sometimes confusing experience. But, home buyers can help take some of the guess work out of their home purchase by hiring a local, certified and online reviewed Atlanta home inspection company to evaluate your investment.

The home inspection report is the most critical piece of documentation that a buyer will have regarding the condition of the home they are planning to purchase. It is imperative that the home inspector provide the buyer with a well written and well thought out report. But what makes for a good home inspection report. Better yet what makes for a great home inspection report?

Narrative- An inspection report should be narrative. It should state exactly what is wrong with the home in a clear and concise manner. Checklist style reports will never give the buyer the amount of information he or she needs about the defects that exist. Checklist reports are often confusing and vague, exactly what you do not need when you are considering making the largest purchase of your life.

Detailed- Inspection reports should provide enough detail so that the buyer and the real estate attorney can have a clear picture of the defects that exist in the home. Reports should document the conditions and indicate where the condition exists in the home.

Photos- A well done inspection report will include photos of the defects. Photos can really bring to life what words sometimes can not. The combination of well written comments and photos will allow you to make better decisions. You will also be less likely to forget an issue exists if a photo has been taken. Photos make it easier to discuss problems with your attorney or spouse.

Understandable language- Inspection reports should be easy to understand. Simple language is better then complex. Reports should keep things simple and not rely on jargon to seem more impressive. An impressive report is the one that the client can understand and finds useful.

Personalized comments- The inspection report should give detail about the conditions that exist at the subject home. The report should be personalized and tailored specifically to the client and the home. Canned comments save time but they do the client an injustice and take the personalization away from the inspection.

Cut and dry- If a problem exists it should be clearly stated that it is a problem. Reports should not tip toe around the issues they should bring them to light.

Summary- A well done home inspection report will include a summary document. The summary document will not rehash all of the issues but it will bring to the front the major issues. Summary documents are very useful especially if there are a host of smaller issues in the home. The entire report should be read and utilized but there is a place for a well prepared summary document.

Do your homework when choosing a home inspector. Make sure you ask about the report style and methods that he or she uses. Use the tips as a guide and you will be well on your way to having a very good home inspection experience.

If you currently have a house in the market or if you have plans to plans of placing a piece of housing in the market, then it never hurts to utilize home inspection to boost the success rate and market value of your sale. A home inspection is a visual examination of a residential dwelling performed by experts and qualified personnel. For a fee, these professionals are tasked to identify material defects of component-systems within a specified dwelling. These components may include mechanical, structural, electrical, and at occasion even plumbing, and other systems that may be agreed upon by the client and the inspector.

A home inspection is designed to assist in making an informed decision on whether to buy or sell a house. The inspection is based on the visual observations of the visible portions of the structure at the time of inspection. While it is not likely to reveal every possible flaw or error in the system or housing, it is enough to ascertain existent material defects. These material defects are those which when left unchecked and unfixed could potentially lead to significant adverse impacts and unnecessary risks to the lives of the people residing within the property.

All the details of the home inspection are neatly detailed in an inspection report which shall be forwarded to the client. The reports typically describe and identify the systems and components that were inspected. Within those systems, the report emphasizes material defects that were observed. After which, recommendations for improvement, monitoring, and evaluations by professionals may be made.

Home Inspectors are a frequent tool utilized by buyers of any property, so should the case be for individuals who have placed their property in the open market. Like any sensible businessman, you would not want to be associated with rotten goods once you make your bid for its sale. Word of mouth has a real effect on the market. While one prospective buyer may not be interested in the housing that you have for sale, their opinions may spread onto the community that the property you offer is a deal breaker.

Minimize these potential losses by hiring a professional home inspection services now. At the very least you could identify material problems that would hinder any potential buyer from confirming that purchase. Having identified these problems, corrections should come at an easier and quicker rate. If you can't afford to make the necessary improvements, then you could at the very least make reasonable concessions or adjustments with regards the market value of the property involved.

A home inspection may also for many reasons give the seller peace of mind. A seller should conclude the sale knowing that safety and convenience of the buyers are intact. By informing potential buyers of any material defects, repairs could be initiated upon consummation of the purchase. Knowing this, the seller could safely go on about his business having dealt with all possible material concerns. His conscience need not bear the lives of others.

A home inspection is a critical decision to be made by the seller. Not only is it an economic decision, but also a moral decision that impacts his peace of mind.

Everyone knows that getting a home inspection when you are buying a home to live in is extremely important. But what if you are in investor? Do you still need a home inspection? Most likely the answer is YES! This is especially true if you are a less experienced investor.

Whether you are planning to buy and hold the property or you are a flipper, putting an inspection clause in the contract gives you a way out if you find something that is completely unexpected and may be very costly to repair. It also gives you a bargaining chip if you need to go back to the seller to adjust your original offer.

Many investors who are planning to flip properties go into the situation (particularly first time flippers) with the idea that they know there are problems and that is why they are purchasing the property "so cheap". They put an offer on the property without taking the proper steps to determine if this is really a sound investment. This is almost certainly a recipe for disaster.

An experienced investor can usually walk through the house and get a pretty fair idea of the visible or obvious work that needs to be done. It is those things that are hidden or of a very technical nature that usually take a trained inspector to uncover. Very few of us are competent to know if a furnace is operating correctly and safely. Now you may say, this furnace looks like it is a hundred years old and I know I am going to be replacing it. That's OK. You can skip the furnace inspection. If the electrical system is going to need to be updated this is a costly item that needs to be figured into the costs to rehab the property. It is certainly something that needs to be taken care of before the cosmetic work begins on the property. These are just few examples of potentially major expenses that can be uncovered in a home inspection. Not having already done a pest inspection before finding a retail buyer has derailed more than a few closings.

A good thing about an inspection is that it will shed some light on the scope of the work that needs to be done on the property. You can get a good idea of the amount of money needed to get the house in good working order from the inspection. Having all of the facts can mean the difference in purchasing a property that will that will turn a decent profit or walking away from one that is sure to end up a failure. You need to always remember that this is a business. It doesn't matter how much the property calls to you. This is no time to fall in love with a particular property and make a decision based on emotions. The bottom line is really the only thing that matters to a savvy investor.

More importantly than any of the things mentioned above, a home inspection can alert you to any potentially hazardous or unsafe conditions in the home that untrained professionals may miss as they walk through the house. Among these could be mold (often hidden), asbestos, lead, carbon monoxide or radon (both colorless and odorless) or even subtle but very serious structural problems that could set you back tens of thousands of dollars. Whether you realize it or not, a professional home inspector can end up saving you thousands of dollars and even prevent you from having to go through costly litigation involving hazardous situations that may discovered at a later date.

Purchasing a new home is a big investment. Before investing your hard earned money in buying a house that you have dreamt of, it is important that you check every aspect of it. One of the most significant aspects is getting the entire home inspected before you sign any contract in the process of buying a house.

The industry of home inspection is full of competent home inspectors. There are dozens of home inspection companies that offer reliable home examination services to their clients. But along with the availability of professional home inspectors, the home inspection industry is also plagued with fraud companies who call themselves competent home inspectors. So, it is a must to screen and qualify a company before hiring their inspection services.

There are a number of things that you must keep in mind while selecting a good home examiner for inspecting your new house. Some of them have been mentioned below:

Experience- You must consider hiring the services of a professional who performs at least 300 inspections per year. House inspectors having more years of experience are most desirable for the job of home inspection.

Knowledge- The home inspection company you choose must be knowledgeable enough to understand every system in a home. Professionals having a relevant degree in the field of engineering or architecture are considered best for the work of home assessment. Professionals dealing in general construction are also considered ideal for the role of house inspectors.

Reputation- When you are dealing with a professional company, it is important to note the reputation of both the company and the inspector who will be performing the work of inspection for your house. You must always request your hired company to send you a trained and reputed inspector for inspecting your home.

Getting relevant reports- Ensure that your hired house inspection company provides you a report that covers all the aspects of scrutiny. The inspection of your new house must include a signed report that describes what inspection was carried and also it will include the conditions of the inspected items. There are a number of home assessors who provide a checklist of items that they inspect. On the other hand, there are professionals who provide a written description of all the items that are inspected.

The cost of the inspection - Before you hire the services of a professional home examination company, you must also ask them to give you an estimate of the total cost associated with the inspection of the house. Once you get an estimate, you can compare it with other companies before hiring any particular company.

You must consider all the above points because at the end, it is the knowledge and experience of the home examiner that matters a lot in the work of home inspection.

Buyers take precautions to protect your most precious investment when buying real estate, especially if you are single and a first time buyer.

You have made the decision to buy a condo or home. You think you have enough money to put a down payment on the property.

Now you have to find the real estate agent to take care of all of your needs. How are you going to find the person that meets your needs? The best way is having someone referred to you. What if that option is not available?

You start searching MLS for properties and locations. You call the realtor on the listing. The realtor engages you and now you are hooked into that realtor for your needs. STOP THERE!

You need to interview a realtor, asking the right questions. You need to know you have someone who is looking out for you, not his or her commission. Someone who will not rush you through a buying process, with limited showings and suggests you make an offer within viewing 3-5 properties. Your realtor needs to work with your timeline and know that you are happy with your decision. If you have doubts about a property-go with your instinct or make sure you do due diligence. ASK QUESTIONS!!! Don't allow for vague answers. Get a Home Inspection.

The first thing a realtor should ask you-Will you need a mortgage? If you answer yes-the next questions should be: Have you met with a mortgage specialist? Has the mortgage specialist qualified you for a specific amount of lending funds? If you answer no-stop looking for a home until you know exactly how much you can afford. It is a waste of time for you and the realtor until that mortgage qualification is completed.

Once you have selected a property, either a condo or a home-have a home inspection. Ask the realtor if you should have a home inspection? If the answer is no-get a new realtor. A realtor should never advise a client against a home inspection unless the property you are buying is going to be completely torn down. An Agreement of Purchase and Sale should contain a clause for a home inspection. If you waive the right to home inspection, cross the clause through and initial the change. be very clear on why you are waiving the home inspection before you sign off. That way both you and the realtor are very clear on your decision. If there is ever a problem after closing there can never be an issued of "he said, she said".

If the house or condo has been recently renovated, don't be deceived that everything is great because you see shiny floors, new cabinets, new kitchen, new appliances, renovated bathrooms, etc. This is the time you especially need that home inspection.

Never use a pre-inspection report by the current homeowner as the report you rely on. Never use a friend or relative who claims to have knowledge in what to look for. Even if the person is a builder, don't rely on the information. This is not an area that you should penny-pinch on.

Your home inspector should be a member of the National Home Inspector's Association. These inspectors must be qualified to do a thorough inspection. Make sure they have insurance for the report they give. It is always best to hire your own qualified inspector so they have a liability to you if there are any errors in the report, items that were missed or items that should have been taken more seriously to help you make a wise decision in purchasing the home. A Home Inspector is not qualified to offer you an opinion of value on the home, only the estimated costs to repair what they see is wrong.

If you are moving into an area that is known to have termites, carpenter ants or other insects that can cause harm to the home, it is best to spend extra on a specialist over and above the regular home inspector. Having the drains, both inside and outside, checked as well is a great idea.. This is not part of a regular home inspection.

Things to be aware of:

1. Asbestos-if being removed can cause a health risk if not done professionally

-asbestos wrapped pipes,
-asbestos ceiling tiles,
-asbestos floor tiles are often concealed under the basement broadloom. If not being removed they often pose no health hazard, but you should be aware they are there.
-asbestos drywall.

2. attic insulation is up to regulation.
3. renovations done to the home had work permits-this can be checked at City Hall.
4. make sure a licensed electrician did all electrical work.
5. interior structural changes; If the home was changed to open concept, you want to know that the structural beams hidden behind the dry wall are supporting the floors properly.
6. moisture behind drywall in the basement can cause mould.
7. wood around the base of the exterior of the home is not touching soil against the house
8 termites
9. carpenter ants
10. electrical not done to code
11. plumbing not installed correctly
12. roof venting

Latent Defects. You want to make sure you are not surprised by them after you have moved in. Your realtor has to ask questions. Avoidance is not an excuse for not knowing.

If you are buying a condo-you should also get a home inspection. You want to know that the electrical, plumbing, airflow, heating, windows and other mechanicals are working efficiently. Some of theses items are not repaired by the condo association and could be a major expense you did not count on after closing. Some condo fees do not include the water heater and the heating/cooling system. You are responsible for their repair.

Don't rush into a hasty Agreement of Purchase and Sale, such as a multiple offer on a home. Make sure it is all right from the beginning. Not doing your due diligence can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair and many months of having to live elsewhere while the work is being done.

Buying a home is a very emotional. This is probably the biggest investment you will make. make sure your realtor is working on your behalf. Get a home inspection by a qualified home inspector who is a Member of the Home Inspectors Association. Take your time, do it right.

Whether you are buying or selling your home in Yonkers, it is a good idea to have your home inspected. The inspection entails an objective visual examination of the structural and plumbing and electrical systems of a home, from roof to foundation. If there are any problems in the home, the home inspector will recommend an additional assessment inspection or the inspector may suggest a solution. Basically the inspection will sum up the condition of the property. It will point out areas of the home, which need repairs and will identify the areas, which will need attention in the future. Buyers and sellers rely on an accurate home inspection to give them the knowledge required to make an intelligent decision regarding purchasing or selling the home. Following the inspection, both parties will have a better idea of the value and maintenance needs of the property.

There are several good reasons to have a home inspection done if you are planning a purchase of a home in Yonkers.

Reason #1

Being the businessman or women that you are, it only makes good sense. The average price of a home is over $400,000. A new roof can cost you from $6,000 to $35,000, and a new furnace can cost you from $3,000 to $10,000. Wouldn't you prefer to know these things needed replacement before you bought the house? A home inspection would have told you.

Reason #2

You will have peace of mind knowing the condition of the home you are considering to purchase. It doesn't matter the age of the building they all need repairs. It is not uncommon for repair estimates to run into the thousands of dollars.

Reason #3

You will have more information. Having the right information will help you make a good decision and not worry about it. Buying real estate is a stressful event, however a home inspection can relieve a certain amount of the strain.

Reason #4

You can get a short-term warranty with some home inspections. You will need to ask your home inspector about the short-term home inspection warranty. Home inspectors will sometimes provide them and they can be a valuable protection for you investment.

Reason #5

You might ask your Realtor about free services to help you by giving you tips on home maintenance, renovation planning tools, home guides. These services will help you be more comfortable and help you maintain the value of your home.
So, before you buy a new home in Yonkers have a home inspection done on the home to minimize your concerns regarding the conditions of the home. Here you have several reasons to have a home inspection done on the home you are about to buy.

If you are thinking about selling your home in Yonkers, you will want to have a home inspection done on your home to help you maximize the value of your home. You will learn of needed repairs to be made before you sign a contract. You will also learn of up and coming problems. You might even get tips on how to prevent those small problems from turning into large problems. A home inspection can be a benefit to the seller as well as the buyer of the home.

Chances are good that electronics have invaded your entire premises. For this reason, it's always a good idea to have a home inspection done to your home if it's been awhile since you moved in.

Think about it. You have streetlights out on the curb.

It lights several meters whereby another light extends the scope of the first one becomes limited and thinly spread. Mostly likely something powers these lines to put the necessary lighting. The task if not evident through overhead post lines it may actually be accomplished underground.

Current advances have enabled the construction of electrical wiring systems underground. Most likely, these systems are the very ones providing electricity for your residence. This only marks the first step in a home inspection.

These lines connect to several outlets and receptacles around the house. The electrical wiring spreads throughout the kitchen area to enable you to use a blender, toaster, or oven as you make a beautiful dinner for yourself or for your family or guests. The system exists in your child's bedroom for lights, switches, and maybe even a radio. The truth is that wiring is behind every outlet and every socket in the house.

That's why it isn't hard to imagine how having a home inspection could benefit you and your family.
In order to get to know what you could possibly be getting yourself into, it's important to lay down some basic rules and guidelines about this service.

This is basically a visual examination conducted by either an individual or a team on your premises examining everything perceptible to the naked eye. You should employ the services of a professional home inspector. The choice is yours so long as you make sure that the individuals you hire are fully qualified to conduct inspections. A home inspection is only as effective as those conducting it.

Therefore make sure that you either hire accredited personnel or associations. Electrical, mechanical, structural, and even industrial engineers might be well suited to the task of examination. If you're employing the services of a group, varied specialties might lead to a more effective diagnosis of the problems and potential problems you might have in your house.

For example, a structural engineer might be quicker and keener on spotting issues regarding foundation and external component while an electrical engineer might be more attuned to handling appliances and electrical systems. There are numerous systems involved in a home inspection especially if you hire the rights persons.

This leads us back to the prevalent system of the house. The electrical system when unchecked could lead to a number of health hazards. Ceiling fans and exhaust fans might actually be more of a harm and danger if improperly installed or unchecked regularly.

Ventilation might not be better off with these items malfunction along with your air conditioning. Light fixtures precariously fixed and placed might fall to the ground suddenly or be smashed when you flip your towel in the air.

Exposed circuitry is certainly of no comfort in any manner. Make sure that your house is really in working order with a home inspection.

There are often so many expenses associated with the purchase of a home that buyers will sometimes eliminate whatever they can in order to drive down the out-of-pocket costs. This can often include the home inspection. While it may seem as though it is an extraneous cost, the truth of the matter is that most buyers will eventually find that a home inspection is an invaluable tool that should not be eliminated.

A home inspection is a visual analysis of all of the systems within the home as well as the structure of the home. The goal of the inspection is to determine whether there is any area of the home that may not be performing as it should as well as whether there is anything in the home that is unsafe or beyond its useful life. Inspections cover not only the interior of the home but also the exterior as well; including the roof, foundation and drainage. If there are any problems discovered during the inspection, further evaluation may be recommended. While a home inspection is not a warranty, if the problems are significant, it could give the buyer some type of recourse including asking the seller to make repairs or canceling the contract, depending on the way the purchase contract was structured.

One of the most frequent questions a buyer asks about home inspections is why they need it. It is another expense, after all. The main reason for purchasing a home inspection is that it buys you some peace of mind and coverage. Without a home inspection, if something goes wrong with one of the major systems of the home after the closing, you have no avenue of recourse and it is your responsibility. Knowing ahead of time if there is a problem allows you to not only be more prepared but also gives you more options.

When looking for a home inspector it is important to verify the amount of experience they have in the industry and whether they have the proper amount of training. You should also look for a home inspector who is a member of a professional organization. Inspectors with affiliations or professional memberships tend to not only be more informed but also be more serious about their jobs. It is also important to look for a home inspector who carries professional liability insurance.

A thorough home inspection should cover the condition of the home's electrical system, heating system, plumbing, central air condition system, the roof, visible insulation, attic, walls, floors, ceilings, foundation, doors, windows, landscaping, basement and visible structure.

The price you can anticipate for a professional home inspection will vary based on the area of the country where you are located as well as other factors including the type of home, the size of the home and features. Some inspectors may charge extra for any additional services you may require such as termite inspection, radon testing, septic and well inspection, etc. Make sure that you do not use the cost as the sole deciding factor for hiring an inspector. A professional, thorough inspection will help you to understand any potential problems in the home and is certainly well worth the cost. An inspector that charges significantly less than others in the area may not provide you with a full report. Remember, you get what you pay for. It will be much more expensive to repair problems that were left out of an inspection report that was not thorough.

It is important that you hire a professional, experienced inspector to inspect your future home rather than trying to do the job yourself. If you have already fallen in love with home you may not be able to be unbiased about possible problems. A good inspector has received training and experience that will allow him to provide a fair, unbiased report while also looking for clues to potential problems that might otherwise be subtle and even difficult to find.

When you have schedule the inspection, do try to be present so that you can review the report with the inspector and ask questions. This will also allow you to view potential problems with the inspector there and view for yourself the extent of the problem. Keep in mind that almost all inspection reports will show some problems. Even if the home is new construction there may be problems noted. Minor problems should be expected. Major problems typically require negotiation between the buyer and the seller for resolution, including a possible price adjustment or repairs made by the seller prior to closing.

The home buying process can be confusing and stressful. Not only do you need to consider things such as price and location, you also have to worry about whether the house itself has any problems that could become costly surprises down the road.

Getting the right Home Inspections is becoming a very crucial decision.

The Home Inspection is an unbiased, professional assessment of the condition of the house. It provides you an expert opinion and professional report on the condition of the physical structure and various systems within a house. Giving you peace of mind on what is likely the largest purchase you will ever make.

In order to prepare the report, an inspector must conduct a visual inspection of the house. The inspection process typically takes about 3 hours to complete. This of course may vary, according to the size and condition of the home. You are strongly encouraged to accompany the inspector during the inspection. This will give you a chance to ask questions and become familiar with the systems of the home.

The inspector will inspect all the structural elements and systems of the home. Items that will typically be included in an inspection are:

Framing (structure)

Roof and attic

Foundation

Walls

Electrical system

Plumbing system

Heating and air conditioning systems

Kitchen

Bathrooms

Additional items and systems unique to a particular home can also be inspected.

When the inspection is complete, the inspector should tell you of any problems that were discovered and discuss them with you. The inspector will also tell you about any routine maintenance that should be performed, as well as answer any questions you may have. You should also receive a full written report of the inspection.

The goal is to discover and inform you of anything that is found that might affect your purchase decision. The inspector should tell you about any problems that was found, and make repair recommendations. You should also be informed of what maintenance tasks are required to keep the home and its systems in top condition.

The reports abound about a slow down in the real estate market. Homes are sitting on the market for longer periods of time, and sellers are finding that buyers are more concerned with the condition of the home. With more homes on the market to choose from, buyers can afford to walk away from a deal, if the conditions of the home are not to their satisfaction.

How well do you know YOUR home?

o Why wait for a buyer's Home Inspector to uncover hidden problems, after you have already accepted an offer that could end up costing you thousands in a lower negotiated selling price?

o A Professional Seller's Pre-Listing Home Inspection can help you identify critical areas of concern up-front

o You decide whether to perform repairs or disclose during initial negotiations

Pre-listing Home Inspection Benefits

There are many benefits to having your home inspected before listing. With a pre-listing inspection your home could sell faster and for more money without any renegotiations because results of the inspection will be presented ahead of time. Your potential buyer will be reassured about the condition of the home from the detailed inspection report. A pre-inspected listing will also give you the ability to fix any problems and deal with any issues ahead of time, so there won't be any surprises.

1. Home could sell faster!

2. Home could sell for more money!

3. No more buyers walking away because they think there is a problem with the house.

4. No deal-killing home inspector picking your home apart after the deal is done.

5. No 11th hour renegotiations based on the inspector's findings.

6. No helpless feelings that an inspector has raised an issue that is not a big problem.

7. No more buyers getting cold feet when they find out the home is not perfect.

8. No more buyers walking away because they don't have time for an inspection.

9. No more parade of inspectors through your home before a multiple-offer situation.

10. You choose the inspector based on reputation and credentials.

11. You resolve any differences of opinion before the house goes on the market.

12. You fix any problems you like or recognize the problem and reflect it in the purchase price - take it off the table as a negotiating tool against you.

13. Inspection Report can be made available as an HTML web page link, to be included on your listing agent's web site. That way, prospective buyer's can see the report in advance.

Many inspectors will come back to re-inspect fixes

If you fix or improve areas noted in the report, many home inspectors will return to the home, to update the report to reflect the current status. This can be a big selling advantage, in particular in a slower market, where buyers are more concerned with condition and value.

As real estate market conditions continue to soften, you need every advantage possible to help your home sell. Don't wait with your fingers crossed, hoping the buyer's home inspector doesn't find any problems. Consider a pre-listing home inspection to put you in the driver's seat and to present your home in the proper light.

A home inspection is an evaluation of the visible and accessible systems and components of a home (plumbing, heating and cooling, electrical, structure, roof, etc.) and is intended to give the client (buyer, seller, or homeowner) a better understanding of the home's general condition. Most often it is a buyer who requests an inspection of the home he or she is serious about purchasing. A home inspection delivers data so that decisions about the purchase can be confirmed or questioned, and can uncover serious and/or expensive to repair defects that the seller/owner may not be aware of. It is not an appraisal of the property's value; nor does it address the cost of repairs. It does not guarantee that the home complies with local building codes or protect a client in the event an item inspected fails in the future. [Note: Warranties can be purchased to cover many items.] A home inspection should not be considered a "technically exhaustive" evaluation, but rather an evaluation of the property on the day it is inspected, taking into consideration normal wear and tear for the home's age and location. A home inspection can also include, for extra fees, Radon gas testing, water testing, energy audits, pest inspections, pool inspections, and several other specific items that may be indigenous to the region of the country where the inspection takes place. Home inspections are also used (less often) by a seller before listing the property to see if there are any hidden problems that they are unaware of, and also by homeowners simply wishing to care for their homes, prevent surprises, and keep the home investment value as high as possible.

The important results to pay attention to in a home inspection are:

1. Major defects, such as large differential cracks in the foundation; structure out of level or plumb; decks not installed or supported properly, etc. These are items that are expensive to fix, which we classify as items requiring more than 2% of the purchase price to repair.

2. Things that could lead to major defects - a roof flashing leak that could get bigger, damaged downspouts that could cause backup and water intrusion, or a support beam that was not tied in to the structure properly.

3. Safety hazards, such as an exposed electrical wiring, lack of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) in kitchens and bathrooms, lack of safety railing on decks more than 30 inches off the ground, etc.

Your inspector will advise you about what to do about these problems. He/she may recommend evaluation - and on serious issues most certainly will - by licensed or certified professionals who are specialists in the defect areas. For example, your inspector will recommend you call a licensed building engineer if they find sections of the home that are out of alignment, as this could indicate a serious structural deficiency.

Home Inspections are only done by a buyer after they sign a contract, right?

This is not true! As you will see when you read on, a home inspection can be used for interim inspections in new construction, as a maintenance tool by a current homeowner, a proactive technique by sellers to make their home more sellable, and by buyers wanting to determine the condition of the potential home.

Sellers, in particular, can benefit from getting a home inspection before listing the home. Here are just a few of the advantages for the seller:

· The seller knows the home! The home inspector will be able to get answers to his/her questions on the history of any problems they find.

· A home inspection will help the seller be more objective when it comes to setting a fair price on the home.

· The seller can take the report and make it into a marketing piece for the home.

· The seller will be alerted to any safety issues found in the home before they open it up for open house tours.

· The seller can make repairs leisurely instead being in a rush after the contract is signed.

Why should I get a home inspection?

Your new home has dozens of systems and over 10,000 parts - from heating and cooling to ventilation and appliances. When these systems and appliances work together, you experience comfort, energy savings, and durability. Weak links in the system, however, can produce assorted problems leading to a loss in value and shortened component life. Would you buy a used car without a qualified mechanic looking at it? Your home is far more complicated, and to have a thorough inspection that is documented in a report arms you with substantial information on which to make decisions.

Why can't I do the inspection myself?

Most homebuyers lack the knowledge, skill, and objectivity needed to inspect a home themselves. By using the services of a professional home inspector, they gain a better understanding of the condition of the property; especially whether any items do not "function as intended" or "adversely affect the habitability of the dwelling" or "warrant further investigation" by a specialist. Remember that the home inspector is a generalist and is broadly trained in every home system.

Why can't I ask a family member who is handy or who is a contractor to inspect my new home?

Although your nephew or aunt may be very skilled, he or she is not trained or experienced in professional home inspections and usually lacks the specialized test equipment and knowledge required for an inspection. Home inspection training and expertise represent a distinct, licensed profession that employs rigorous standards of practice. Most contractors and other trade professionals hire a professional home inspector to inspect their own homes when they themselves purchase a home!

What does a home inspection cost?

This is often the first question asked but the answer tells the least about the quality of the inspection. Fees are based according to size, age and various other aspects of the home. Inspection fees from a certified professional home inspector generally start under $300. An average price for a 2,000 square foot home nationally is about $350-$375. What you should pay attention to is not the fee, but the qualifications of your inspector. Are they nationally certified (passed the NHIE exam)? Are they state certified if required?

How long does the inspection take?

This depends upon the size and condition of the home. You can usually figure 1.2 hours for every 1,000 square feet. For example, a 2,500 square foot house would take about 3 hours. If the company also produces the report at your home, that will take an additional 30-50 minutes.

Do all homes require a home inspection?

Yes and No. Although not required by law in most states, we feel that any buyer not getting a home inspection is doing themselves a great disservice. They may find themselves with costly and unpleasant surprises after moving into the home and suffer financial headaches that could easily have been avoided.

Should I be at the inspection?

It's a great idea for you be present during the inspection - whether you are buyer, seller, or homeowner. With you there, the inspector can show you any defects and explain their importance as well as point out maintenance features that will be helpful in the future. If you can't be there, it is not a problem since the report you receive will be very detailed. If you are not present, then you should be sure to ask your inspector to explain anything that is not clear in the report. Also read the inspection agreement carefully so you understand what is covered and what is not covered in the inspection. If there is a problem with the inspection or the report, you should raise the issues quickly by calling the inspector, usually within 24 hours. If you want the inspector to return after the inspection to show you things, this can be arranged and is a good idea, however, you will be paying for the inspector's time on a walkthrough since this was not included in the original service.

Should the seller attend the home inspection that has been ordered by the buyer?

The seller will be welcome at the inspection (it is still their home) although they should understand that the inspector is working for the buyer. The conversation that the inspector has with the buyer may be upsetting to the seller if the seller was unaware of the items being pointed out, or the seller may be overly emotional about any flaws. This is a reason why the seller might want to consider getting their own inspection before listing the home.

Can a house fail a home inspection?

No. A 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 verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, cannot not pass or fail a house. The inspector will objectively describe the home's physical condition and indicate which items are in need of repair or replacement.

What is included in the inspection?

The following list is not exhaustive. Not all of these may be in the inspection you get, but the inspector will be following a standardized checklist for the home:
· Site drainage and grading
· Driveway
· Entry Steps, handrails
· Decks
· Masonry
· Landscape (as it relates to the home)
· Retaining walls
· Roofing, flashings, chimneys, and attic
· Eaves, soffits, and fascias
· Walls, doors, windows, patios, walkways
· Foundation, basement, and crawlspaces
· Garage, garage walls, floor, and door operation
· Kitchen appliances (dishwasher, range/oven/cooktop/hoods, microwave, disposal, trash compactor)
· Laundry appliances (washer and dryer)
· Ceilings, walls, floors
· Kitchen counters, floors, and cabinets
· Windows and window gaskets
· Interior doors and hardware
· Plumbing systems and fixtures
· Electrical system, panels, entrance conductors
· Electrical grounding, GFCI, outlets
· Smoke (fire) detectors
· Ventilation systems and Insulation
· Heating equipment and controls
· Ducts and distribution systems
· Fireplaces
· Air Conditioning and controls
· Heat Pumps and controls
· Safety items such as means of egress, TPRV valves, railings, etc.

Other items that are not a part of the standard inspection can be added for an additional fee:
· Radon Gas Test
· Water Quality Test
· Termite Inspection (usually performed by a separate company)
· Gas Line Leak Test (usually performed by the gas company)
· Sprinkler System Test
· Swimming Pool and Spa Inspection
· Mold Screening (sometimes performed by a separate company)
· Septic System Inspection (usually performed by a separate company)
· Alarm System (usually performed by a separate company)

We recommend getting a Radon Test if your prospective home falls into an area of the country with known Radon seepage, since Radon gas produces cancer second only to cigarette smoking and can be easily mitigated by installing a vent system. We also recommend a water test to make sure you do not have bacteria in the water supply. Water can also be tested for Radon.

What is not included in the inspection?

Most people assume that everything is inspected in depth on inspection day. This misunderstanding has caused many a homebuyer to be upset with their inspector. The inspections we do are not exhaustive and there is a good reason for this. If you hired someone with licenses for heating and cooling, electrical, plumbing, engineering, etc. to inspect your house, it would take about 14 hours and cost you about $2000! It is much more practical to hire a professional inspector who has generalist knowledge of home systems, knows what to look for, and can recommend further inspection by a specialist if needed. Your inspector is also following very specific guidelines as he/she inspects your home. These are either national guidelines (ASHI - American Society of Home Inspectors, InterNACHI - International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) or state guidelines. These guidelines are carefully written to protect both your home and the inspector. Here are some examples: We are directed to not turn systems on if they were off at the time of the inspection (safety reasons); we are not allowed to move furniture (might harm something); not allowed to turn on water if it is off (possible flooding), and not allowed to break through a sealed attic hatch (possible damage). The downside of this practice is that by not operating a control, by not seeing under the furniture, and not getting into the attic or crawlspace, we will might miss identifying a problem. However, put into perspective, the chances of missing something serious because of this is quite low, and the guideline as it relates to safety and not harming anything in the home is a good one. There are other items that 95% of inspectors consider outside a normal inspection, and these include inspecting most things that are not bolted down (installed in the home) such as electronics, low voltage lighting, space heaters, portable air conditioners, or specialized systems such as water purifiers, alarm systems, etc.

What if there are things you can't inspect (like snow on the roof)?

It just so happens that some days the weather elements interfere with a full home inspection! There isn't much we can do about this either. If there is snow on the roof we will tell you we were unable to inspect it. Of course we will be looking at the eves and the attic, and any other areas where we can get an idea of condition, but we will write in the report that we could not inspect the roof. It is impractical for us to return another day once the snow melts, because we have full schedules. However, you can usually pay an inspector a small fee to return and inspect the one or two items they were unable to inspect when they were there the first time. This is just the way things go. If you ask the inspector for a re-inspection, they will usually inspect the items then at no extra charge (beyond the re-inspection fee).

Will the inspector walk on the roof?

The inspector will walk on the roof if it is safe, accessible, and strong enough so that there is no damage done to it by walking on it. Some roofs - such as slate and tile, should not be walked on. Sometimes because of poor weather conditions, extremely steep roofs, or very high roofs, the inspector will not be able to walk the roof. The inspector will try to get up to the edge though, and will also use binoculars where accessibility is a problem. They will also examine the roof from the upper windows if that is possible. There is a lot the inspector can determine from a visual examination from a ladder and from the ground, and they will be able to tell a lot more from inside the attic about the condition of the roof as well.

Should I have my house tested for Radon? What exactly is Radon?

In many areas of the country, the answer is a definite yes. You can ask your real estate agent about this or go on to the internet for a radon map of the country. Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas that's formed during the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Radon exits the ground and can seep into your home through cracks and holes in the foundation. Radon gas can also contaminate well water.

Health officials have determined that radon gas is a serious carcinogen that can cause lung cancer, second only to cigarette smoking. The only way to find out if your house contains radon gas is to perform a radon measurement test, which your home inspector can do. Make sure the person conducting your test has been trained to The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) or The National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) standards.

What about a newly constructed home? Does it need a home inspection?

Yes! In fact, we find far more problems, some quite serious, in newly constructed homes than in homes that have been lived in for years. This is not due to your builder's negligence - he/she has done the best job they could with subcontractors and planning - it's just that there are so many systems in a home, that it is close to impossible to inspect everything, and correct it before the Certificate of Occupancy is issued. Then, for some reason, the subcontractors no longer want to work on the home, and final jobs and details are missed. We recommend getting several professional home inspections near the completion stages of the home to discover everything that should be corrected. If the house is still new but sitting for a while before sale, it's even more important to get a home inspection. We have seen water lines not hooked up, plumbing lines not hooked up, sewer lines not hooked up, vents not hooked up, and a variety of other serious but easily correctable problems!

I am having a home built. The builder assures me he will inspect everything. Should I have an independent inspector make periodic inspections?

Absolutely yes! No matter how good your builder is, he/she WILL miss things. They are so concerned with the house, they get so close to their work, as do the subcontractors, that important items can, and will be, overlooked. Have a professional inspector make at least 4-6 interim inspections. They will be worth their weight in gold.

What is the Pre-Inspection Agreement?

Most service professionals have a service agreement, and home inspection is no different. In fact, there is enough confusion about what a home inspection should deliver that the agreement is even more important. Some homeowners who get a home inspection expect everything in the home to be perfect after the repairs. This is not the case! Imagine getting a call from a homeowner a year later who says the toilet is not flushing - remember that the inspection is a moment in time snapshot. In the inspection agreement the inspector is clear about what the inspection delivers and the things that are not covered, as well as what you should do if you are not pleased with the services. We really think that by reviewing this before-hand you will understand much more about the inspection and be happier with the results. A home inspection does not guard against future problems, nor does it guarantee that all problems will be found.

What kind of report will I get following the inspection?

There are as many versions of a "report" as there are inspection companies. Guidelines dictate that the inspector deliver a written report to the client. This can range from a handwritten checklist that has multiple press copies without pictures and 4 pages long to a computer generated professionally produced report with digital pictures that is 35 pages long and can be converted to Adobe PDF for storage and emailing. Be sure to check with your inspector about the report he or she uses. We recommend the computer generated report, since the checklist is more detailed and easier for the homeowner/buyer/seller to detail out the issues with photographs. In this modern age, we feel the reports must be web accessible and e-mailable to match the technologies most of us are using.

There are some great things you can use the report for in addition to the wealth of information it simply gives you on your new home:

· Use the report as a checklist and guide for the contractor to make repairs and improvements or get estimates and quotes from more than one contractor.

· Use the report as a budgeting tool using the inspector's recommendations and the remaining expected life of components to keep the property in top shape.

· If you are a seller, use the report to make repairs and improvements, raising the value of the home and impressing the buyers. Then have a re-inspection and use this second report as a marketing tool for prospective buyers.

· Use the report as a "punch list" on a re-inspection and as a baseline for ongoing maintenance.

Will the report be emailable or available as an Adobe PDF file?

Yes. As discussed in the last question, you will probably want your inspector to be using the latest reporting technology.

What if I think the inspector missed something?

Inspectors are human, and yes, they do miss items. However, they routinely use advanced tools and techniques to reduce the possibility that they will miss something. This includes very detailed checklists, reference manuals, computer based lists, and a methodical always-done-the-same-way of physically moving around your home. That is one of the reasons that an inspector can miss an item when they get interrupted. The inspector will have a set way of resuming the inspection if this happens. If, in the end, something IS missed, call the inspector and discuss it. It may warrant the inspector returning to view something that you found. Remember, the inspector is doing the very best job they know how to do, and probably did not miss the item because they were lax in their technique or did not care.

What if the inspector tells me I should have a professional engineer or a licensed plumber or other professional contractor in to look at something they found? Isn't this "passing the buck"?

You may be disappointed that further investigation is required, but, believe us, your inspector is doing exactly what they should be doing. The purpose of the inspection is to discover defects that affect your safety and the functioning of the home; the inspector is a generalist, not a specialist. Our code of ethics as well as national and state guidelines dictate that only contractors that are licensed in their specialty field should work on these systems and areas. When they tell you that a specialist is needed, there may be a bigger, more critical issue that you need to know about. If you move into the home without getting these areas checked by a qualified specialist, you could be in for some nasty and expensive surprises. The inspector does not want to cause you any more expense or worry either, so when they do recommend further evaluation they are being serious about protecting you and your investment.

Will the inspector provide a warranty on the inspected items?

Most inspectors do not give the homeowner a warranty on inspected items. Remember, a home inspection is a visual examination on a certain day, and the inspector cannot predict what issues could arise over time after the inspection. However, some inspectors are now including a warranty from the largest home warranty company in America - American Home Warranty Corporation, as well as others, on the inspected items for 60 or 90 days. This is a very good deal, and the agreement can be extended after the initial period for a relatively small amount of money.

Do most inspection companies offer money back guarantees?

Most inspection companies do not offer a satisfaction guarantee nor do they mention it in their advertising. It's always a good thing if you can get extra services for no additional cost from your inspection company, and of course a satisfaction guarantee is an indication of superior customer service. You usually have to call your inspection company right after the inspection and viewing of the report to tell them you are not satisfied. If you are not happy with the services, you should talk to your inspector first and let him/her correct the issue(s) you are unhappy with first, as the inspector is trying to make an honest living just like the rest of us, and is not failing you on purpose.

What if my report comes back with nothing really defective in the home? Should I ask for my money back?

No, don't ask for your money back - you just received great news! 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 have valuable information about your new home from the inspector's report, and will want to keep that information for future reference. Most importantly, you can feel assured that you are making a well-informed purchase decision.

What if the inspection reveals serious defects?

If the inspection reveals serious defects in the home (we define a serious defect as something that will cost more than 2% of the purchase price to fix) then pat yourself on the back for getting an inspection. You just saved yourself a ton of money. Of course it is disappointing, even heart wrenching, to find out that your well researched house is now a problem house, but you now know the facts and can either negotiate with the seller, or move on. You may want the home so much that it will be worth it to negotiate the price and then perform the repairs. Imagine, though, if you had not gotten the inspection - you would have had some very unpleasant surprises.

Can I ask my home inspector to perform the repairs?

You can, but if your inspector is ethical, he/she will refuse, and correctly so; it is a conflict of interest for the person who inspected your home to also repair it! Inspectors are specifically barred from this practice by licensing authorities, and it's a good practice - an inspector must remain completely impartial when he or she inspects your home. This is one reason you should have a professional home inspector inspect your home and not a contractor - the contractor will want the repair work and you are likely to not have an objective inspection from this person even though they mean well and are technically competent.

Does the Seller have to make the repairs?

The inspection report results do not place an obligation on the seller to repair everything mentioned in the report. Once the home condition is known, the buyer and the seller should sit down and discuss what is in the report. The report will be clear about what is a repair and what is a discretionary improvement. This area should be clearly negotiated between the parties. It's important to know that the inspector must stay out of this discussion because it is outside of their scope of work.

After the home inspection and consulting with the seller on the repairs, can I re-employ the inspector to come re-inspect the home to make sure everything got fixed?

You certainly can, and it's a really good idea. For a small fee the inspector will return to determine if the repairs were completed, and if they were completed correctly.

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 visible at the time of the inspection and should have been mentioned in the report, your first step should be to call the inspector. He or she will be fine with this, and does want you to call if you think there is a problem. If the issue is not resolved with a phone call, they will come to your home to look at it. They will want you to be satisfied and will do everything they can to do this. One way to protect yourself between the inspection and the move-in is to conduct a final walkthrough on closing day and use both the inspection report AND a Walkthrough Checklist to make sure everything is as it should be.

Copyright 2010 by Lisa P. Turner