Home Inspections

Determining home inspection cost takes into account many different factors, some of which depend on the particular house being inspected and some of which are property-independent. Of course, home inspection cost is subject to market forces as well. This article delves into both independent determinants, those contributing to the subjective assessment of inspector worth, such as report quality and expertise, and dependent ones, such as house age and size. It also looks at client-specific charges that can affect overall fee.

Home-independent inspection cost is more or less what one pays for the inspector himself, as opposed to the job he performs. Inspectors are generalists, needing to possess a broad understanding of the entire workings of a house. This implies extensive training and the ability to meet all licensing requirements. If he is also licensed to conduct a complete and specific pest inspection in his state, then his expertise is more valuable.

Beyond this, there is considerable variation among home inspectors in terms of the report produced, communication skills, and thoroughness. This results in variation of basic cost, perhaps not readily apparent but worth investigating. A potential customer can check report quality by requesting and comparing sample reports. It is not too difficult to distinguish someone who cares about delivering useful and accurate information from someone who dashes off a list without a second thought. The sample report is a good indicator of written communication skills as well, though good verbal skills are also desirable. Degree of thoroughness is also evident from the report.

Primary home-dependent factors contributing to inspection cost are the type of residence, its size, and its age. The most common type is single-family residence. Inspectors usually set their base fees relative to it and adjust accordingly. Clients often expect condos, mobile homes, and duplexes to cost less, even though the inspection is not necessarily any less involved. On the other hand, people are not surprised to learn that the price increases for older houses, which tend to have more problems than newer ones, and larger ones. Inspectors gauge by thresholds, examples of which are seven to ten years in age and two thousand square feet in size.

An inspector will usually charge more for additional services requested by the client. For instance, coming back for a re-inspection, measuring air quality, and sampling for evidence of hazardous materials such as lead paint, asbestos, or mold are all tasks that are outside the normal inspection and command more money. Not all inspectors are qualified to perform these additional services. The client may also want the inspector to include items normally excluded, such as retaining walls, unattached fences, or swimming pools, and the inspector is justified in charging more to do so.

A home inspection is a vital part of any real estate transaction. In most cases the home inspector is hired by the buyer to provide a detailed description of the problems that are found in the home. In essence the home inspector is the advocate for the home buyer and should work to provide an accurate and unbiased assessment of the conditions that exist in the home at the time of the home inspection.

A home inspection is not required but strongly recommended by most real estate attorneys, and lenders. A well done and thorough home inspection will provide the information that the purchaser needs to make decisions about the home they are buying. The buyer may receive the peace of mind in knowing that the home is in good condition with few defects. Or they may be exposed to many defects that they did not know existed. Only the trained eye of a professional home inspector can detect and locate many of these defects. Home inspectors know how to look for defects and where to look for them.

A home inspection is an unbiased, visual inspection of the structure, systems and mechanical systems in the home. The home inspector is required to inspect visible and accessible systems. These systems will include Exterior, roofing systems, electrical systems, plumbing system, heating and air conditioners, interior systems, structure, insulation and ventilation. The home inspector is required to use normal operating controls such as on off switches and thermostats in order to engage the systems in the home for testing. The home inspector can not do anything that will cause damage to any components or systems.

Here in New Jersey, home inspectors are required to be licensed and are governed by the Home Inspection Advisory committee which is a body that oversees the licensing and requirements of professional home inspectors in New Jersey.

There is no perfect home and problems will be uncovered by a thorough home inspector. When problems are found that does not mean that the home is not a good value or should not be purchased. The inspection and report will describe the problems that exist. Then it is up to you and your real estate attorney to either decide to purchase the home, ask the seller to make corrective actions, ask for a credit toward repairs and corrections, or walk away from the transaction. The home inspector is going to supply the information that you need and can not make these decisions directly for you. A home can not officially pass or fail a home inspection.

It is my firm conviction that home inspectors should operate independently of external influences. Most states have independent home inspectors who obtain their business from word of mouth advertising from satisfied home inspection clients, real estate attorneys and other independent means of marketing. These independent home inspectors may be a little more expensive but may provide you with a superior inspection and inspection report.

As you consider what is likely going to be the largest financial investment of you life you owe it to yourself to obtain the services of a professional home inspector. The cost of the home inspection will more then pay for itself in added peace of mind and information about the home you are purchasing.

A home is just about the most significant purchase you will make in your lifetime. Buying a house without accurately evaluating it may deprive you of time and a considerable amount of money. Whether you buy a pre-existing property or a new construction home, you should have a house inspection to discover if the property is sound and safe for habitation.

Typically, a property inspection is a visual non-invasive evaluation of the house to be able to justify the soundness or durability of various components and to decide if the house needs significant repairing. Also, the house assessment is a part of the real-estate transaction. Typically home inspections stay as a condition of Offer-to-Purchase. The problem(s) found from a house inspection do not usually require the buyers to retreat from the purchase; instead they assist to reassess the home and permit for negotiation of a suitable selling price.

A home inspection should be accomplished using a professional and knowledgeable inspector. The home inspectors will investigate overall house and associated structure and create a thorough report that shows the proper structural condition of the house. A house inspection normally requires the inspection of heating and air conditioning systems, electrical systems, floor, walls, ceiling, windows and doors, venting, insulation; attic, fireplace, foundation, as well as other structural components.

When recruiting a home inspector, always look for a qualified and experienced one. The American Society of Home Inspection (ASHI) has comprehensive guidelines and publications stating standard procedures and code of ethics. Make sure the report created by your house inspector complies with the guidelines. Normally a home inspector's fee will range around $250-$350 but it could vary substantially depending upon the size and condition of the house. Always make sure you understand the costs before you decide to have the inspection accomplished. In a practical sense, the price tag is negligible, taking into consideration the home inspection will provide very helpful information regarding the homes condition, which assists you make the correct purchasing decision.

Remember, the aim of the home inspection is not to ascertain the worth of the house; this is the job of a home appraiser. The house inspector determines the condition of the home, whether the home needs major repairing, and if so, just how much it will cost or whether any components of the house will create any potential upcoming problems. Lastly, remember there's no failing or passing grades for the home inspection.

Home is the place where most of our dreams centre. Home is where the heart resides. As it is the most essential and major requisite of all, it is as important to get it inspected as well. Home Inspection is a non invasive checking to know about the condition of the home. It is generally done by a home inspector. A home inspector is a person who carries out such inspections with the help of special equipments and trainings. Some of them may even use home inspection software.

Generally in United States, families move or shift every five to seven years on an average. While making a move, all these homes are under evaluation and are inspected by home inspectors and the buyers. A consistent Home Inspection comprises of evaluating the home for its basement, roof, mechanical structure, plumbing, electrical supplies, heating system, air- conditioning system and other aspects. Improper building practices like repairs, maintenance, fire and safety are also a part of general inspection. Home owners and buyers make use of these inspection services before selling and buying homes to make note of any potential systems that require attention. This timely evaluation gradually helps the owners to make plans for timely repairs and upgrades of their houses when required.

Sometimes Home Inspection is confused with the rating of the home. The basic purpose to do the inspection is not to evaluate the exact value of the home but is done to determine the condition of the home. It is not at all an appraisal or a municipal inspection to verify the condition of the building. It is an evaluation method to determine only the structure of the home. In United States and Canada, inspection of home is necessary unless the home cannot be considered for buying and selling purposes. Thus, in layman's term it can be said that Home Inspection is a physical check-up of the home.

Home Inspection Misconceptions

With the increasing popularity of home inspections, today, most homes have undergone one prior to buying or selling. The purpose of the inspection is to inform the potential buyer of the actual condition of the home. This allows them to make educated decisions regarding the property. Even though home inspections are so common, there are still several misconceptions surrounding them.

Some people believe that home inspections are done so that the buyer can bargain for a lower price. The major purpose of an inspection is to alert the buyer of any significant situations that may have an adverse effect on the structural integrity of the home and any safety issues that this would cause especially ones that were omitted by the seller on the disclosure statement. If such items are discovered, then it is OK to use the inspection results to renegotiate the pricing of the property. The home inspection is not used to point out all the cosmetic imperfections of the property and in most cases; this type of thing is not even included in the report given by the inspector. You do not want to nit pick over the small stuff.

Often times, it is thought that only "used homes" require an inspection. Nothing could be farther form the truth. It is just as important to get a new home inspected as it is a used one. With new homes, there are many players in the game, subcontractors that perform their own specialized field of work. Unfortunately, not all contractors can be trusted to do everything according to code and sometimes eliminate or take short cuts in order to trim costs. There are many stipulations and contracts that come into play at closing time regarding the purchase of a new home and if your inspection isn't done in a timely manner prior to closing, you could be putting yourself in a situation that is very problematic.

Contrary to popular belief, not all home inspections are created equal! It is so very important to have your Sacramento inspection done by a reputable, experienced inspector, one that has been thoroughly trained and knows what to look for. They should be familiar with the guidelines and procedures that are to be followed in your area. Be sure to check their credentials prior to hiring them and don't be afraid to ask for references and most importantly, check those references out.

Even though you have had another type of inspection done such as a pest inspection, code inspection or even an appraisal, don't think that you are in good shape. These types of inspection do not take the place of a comprehensive home inspection. Each home inspection is followed up with a written report detailing all the findings of the inspection along with diagrams and sometime pictures of the issues found. This way you can see exactly what they are talking about. So, put your mind at ease and get a trained inspector to conduct your Sacramento inspection before you decide to buy.

A thorough home inspection is a vital part of buying any home, condo, or other type of dwelling. This inspection can protect you from expensive financial costs later on, because of defects that were not noticed and that you were not aware of. A home inspector has training and an education in factors that show hidden defects, such as signs of hidden water damage or electrical problems. A home inspection is a visual inspection of all areas and components of the home, both inside and out, that are accessible to the inspector. This includes the roof, the attic, the interior and exterior walls, all the windows and doors, all systems including heating, plumbing, and electrical, and much more. A knowledgeable and experienced home inspector can provide valuable information about a home that can prevent you from making a costly mistake if conditions are too bad. Not all home problems and flaws are readily visible to the inexperienced eye, and this is where a quality and thorough home inspection can help.

There are some things that may not be covered under a home inspection, and each state and inspection firm may have rules that vary. Some inspections do not cover mold testing, air quality testing, radon testing, wood eating insect testing, water testing, and other types of testing. Some home inspection businesses will perform some of these testing services for free or a charge, while others do not. Most home inspections cover the basic visual components of the home and the operation, condition, and function of the systems. Almost all the licensed home inspection companies can have these testing services performed for you through a third party, but these tests may not be considered routine.

A home inspection, is not a pass or fail type of test, but rather a complete and detailed overview of the condition of every possible aspect of the home that can be visually inspected. The inspector will check the door and window conditions and operation, look at the foundation and any slabs, check all the systems in the home, and basically go over the home from the bottom up, both inside and out. Even gutters, eaves, flashing, and the yard should be looked at. The fees charged for a home inspection will vary, depending on several factors. The size of the home, the location and state where the home is, any additional testing that is desired or needed, the age of the home, and the home inspection service used. A normal range for this inspection can usually run between five hundred dollars and up depending upon size, age and location of the property. This may seem like a big expense, but when you consider that a complete and thorough home inspection may reveal thousands of dollars in repairs and maintenance needed it is quite reasonable.

A home inspection can usually take between two and four hours, depending on the size and complexity of the home, but this can vary. The inspector may bring a checklist for the inspection that will cover every possible aspect of any home, plus there is usually room for handwritten observations as well. The home inspection checklist can consist of many pages, and each page may deal with a specific aspect or room, such as the master bathroom, or exterior walls. Each system involved, will normally have their own section also. Once the inspection is complete you will receive a complete typewritten report from the inspector, outlining both the negative and positive aspects of the home. This can also help you determine what maintenance is needed and when it must be done. Not all parts of a home inspection are negative, and every home may have a few problems. Sometimes a homeowner may have an inspection done just to ensure there are no hidden maintenance problems with their home.

It is a good idea for you to be present during the home inspection for many reasons. First, by being present you will have a chance to ask any questions you may have about the home or certain aspects. Following the inspector during the inspection will also give you a much clearer idea of what is involved with the different systems, and will help you understand the final home inspection report a lot better. Sometimes a buyer may feel confident and think that if they do a good visual inspection it is not necessary to have a home inspector come in and do an inspection. This is a common mistake. Sure you can see bare wires hanging out of the wall, but do you know the signs of hidden mold or previous flooding damage? Most of us do not know the hidden signs of home damage and problems, and this can lead to a serious problem being overlooked, and becoming a big financial burden once you have bought the home. You should always insist on a quality professional home inspection before buying any home, to avoid making a big mistake that can cost you later on.

Finding a qualified home inspector to do the home inspection is not difficult. You can look in the yellow pages of your local phone book, or ask around for references from friends and family. Talk to a few different companies, and then choose the one that seems right for you. Ask about professional ethics, qualifications, any licensing, and experience. Check with your local better business bureau for complaints against the company or the home inspector before making a final decision on which company to use. The best time to call for a home inspector is as soon as the purchase agreement is signed. Normally a home inspection can be done within a week, but sometimes this may not be the case. Calling as soon as possible will ensure that your purchase is not held up waiting on the inspection to occur. A home inspection is the best way to protect yourself and know about the true condition of any home before you buy it. This will be one of the biggest investments you will ever make, and you owe it to yourself to make sure the investment is a good one.

Although a home inspection is a typical part of any residential real estate transaction, it is usually initiated by the potential buyer and paid for by that person -- and there are some lenders that actually require an inspection to give final approval for financing.

In a difficult market, however, it is not unusual for a seller to take the proactive move of having a pre-listing inspection to get on top of potential issues that might affect price or sink a sale at the last minute.

Consequently, it's important for both buyers and sellers to understand home inspections in order to get the most benefit from the process.

Two Typical Inspections Conducted

Normally there are two inspections conducted on a home:

• The general inspection of all the home's systems and structure.
• An inspection for the presence of termites or other wood-damaging insects.

Although this article primarily considers the general inspection, note that it is imperative for the termite inspection to be carried out by a licensed pest control expert. Typically if wood-damaging insects are found, the infestation will be treated and a second inspection will be necessary to verify the success of the treatment.

Selecting a General Inspector

There are a number of things you'll want to know about a home inspector's credentials. Presumably you've contacted the inspector based on a referral. For starters, can you trust the referral?

Since a thorough home inspection is in the best interests of both the buyer and the seller, you normally do not have to worry about a conflict of interest on the part of either the buyer's or seller's agent. In either case, however, it is not out of line to ask the inspector to present references.

If the inspector works with a company that also provides home repair services, you may want to take pause. It is possible they will find "problems" that are in their best economic interests to solve.

The best referrals are those that come from someone you trust, who has worked with the inspector before. (It's also advisable to contract with an inspector who examines more than 200 homes a year. At that volume, you can be sure they're on top of their game.)

Also, take pains to verify that the inspector you hire is covered by errors and omissions insurance as well as by a general liability policy. Do not hesitate to ask for proof of this coverage.

Consider checking if the inspector is a member of your local Better Business Bureau. Whether he is or isn't, your local BBB should have a record of any complaints that have been filed and how they were resolved, if they were. Learn from the experience of others!

What Kind of Report Will Be Generated?

There are three types of reports common in home inspections:

• A form with a check list of items and conditions with limited room for comments.
• A written report with descriptions of the inspector's findings.
• A computer generated hybrid of the two.

Ask in advance about the type of report you will receive and ask to see an example -- completed by the inspector with whom you will be working. The least effective variety of report allows the inspector to simply circle vague qualifiers like "good" or "poor."

You want -- and need -- a detailed report with specific information, especially if problems are discovered. The inspector's report may well become the basis for further negotiations on the sale and should offer complete and actionable information.

Be There For the Inspection

Inspections take as long as they take. Expect at least two hours for a thorough job. Arrange to be present. Often the questions you ask during the inspection process reveal the greatest degree of information. If the inspector doesn't want you there, find another inspector. Also, try to schedule the appointment for early in the day when the inspector is fresh and at his most attentive.

If you are present, then you know that all major systems have been examined -- in particular the heating | air conditioning, electrical system and appliances and the plumbing fixtures. These are the areas where problems most typically surface in the home and it's essential to get a clean bill of health on each one.

Go Into the Inspection with a Positive Attitude

All too often, sellers look on the inspection with dread and buyers think it's an unnecessary expense. Both attitudes are counter-productive. The home inspection is an important aspect of an open and transparent real estate transaction. It ensures that the seller gets the best price and the buyer the best value. By understanding the process and taking care to pick the right professional for the job, the home inspection should be a positive and useful experience for all concerned.

article submitted on behalf of co-author Darrell Self.

The real estate industry is a multi-billion dollar sector in the United States. There are many players in each real estate transaction with home inspectors being as important as the real estate closing itself.

Families move, on the average, once every five to seven years. Also, just under 70% of all homes bought and sold in the United States are evaluated by a home inspector. Given these two statistics, the home inspection industry is a major player in most real estate transactions. Home Inspection Defined A home inspection is a non-invasive visual examination of specific components in a residential property. The general components observed or evaluated are the structure, mechanical systems, and the lot or grounds. A home inspection is not a code inspection; they can be very different.

Many states now require home inspectors to be licensed and insured. Licensed home inspectors are considered professionals. So, before selecting a home inspector, ask for their credentials and find out whether your state licenses home inspectors. The licensing state will generally require that the home inspector have a certain number of classroom hours (some actually take correspondence), attend a specified number of "dead inspection", attend a certain number of "live inspections", and pass a national test. In many states, after the test has been passed but before the home inspector performs a home inspection on residential property for resale, the home inspector must obtain Errors and Omissions and General Liability insurances.

States licensing home inspectors will typically have "Standards of Practice" or a "Code of Ethics" that the inspectors must follow. The Standards typically outline the minimum you can expect from a home inspector or what can and cannot be expected in a home inspection. For example, home inspections are generally not technically exhausted. That is, home inspectors do not necessarily inspect the cause of certain problems; they merely report that there appears to be an issue and recommend further evaluation.

Home inspections may contain items greater than the typical Standards but they should never contain less. For example an HVAC technician who is now performing home inspection may offer a very thorough evaluation of your heating and cooling system for an additional fee. This is perfectly fine as the home inspector can always do more than the Standards of Practice. How Much Will A Typical Home Inspection Cost? The cost of a home inspection varies widely by location of the property, size of the buildings inspected, and the depth of the inspection. As a general statement, home inspectors must inspect certain systems in the home. They must also describe certain features of the home as well. For instance, saying that the home has a roof is no more information than most of us can gather on our own. But saying that the dwelling has an asphalt shingled roof with OSB sheathing gives us a considerable amount of additional information.

With that said and at the time of this writing, Baton Rouge home inspections run between $250 and $400 per inspection for a house under 2,500 square feet. New Orleans home inspections and Lafayette home inspections run roughly in the same range.

This price range may appear wide but certain inspectors offer a "bare bones inspection" that is relatively cheap while others offer a few more bells and whistles for a slightly higher price. Lower priced home inspections may be as equally thorough as a higher priced inspection but this is not always the case. Do keep in mind that a higher price does not necessarily mean less value in the home inspection business. The cliché, "You get what you pay for" definitely holds true when dealing with home inspections. What Can I Expect From My Home Inspector? Home inspectors should provide a thorough evaluation of your home as defined above. After inspecting your home, home inspectors will give you a home inspection report. These reports will generally outline each area that the home inspector reviewed and, more importantly, those that he did not.

Limitations are outlined in the home inspection report. Limitations of your home inspection are those items that prevented a thorough inspection. Home inspectors do not move furniture or rugs and many do not remove items such as child proof receptacle covers. Given that a home inspection is a visual examination, furniture or grass around the foundation can really obscure the inspector's view.

A typical home inspection report will contain a detail section as well as a summary page or pages. Many useful tips may be buried within the text of the home inspection report. It is always good to take some time to sit down and review the whole report. Some reports may be in excess of 30 pages. Don't let this alarm you! Home inspection reports typically will explain the deficiencies found in your home as well as offer some very useful tips. Some inspection reports can be viewed as a mini homeowners ... owner's manual.

Most home inspectors pay for a report template from third parties. This template may be either a paper template that is completed by hand or a computerized template that is completed on the computer. There are advantages to each type of report, most of which deal with the speed that the client receives the home inspection report. The typical turnaround time for a home inspection report may be as quick as the inspection is complete to as long as 24 hours or more out. This is a question that you should ask your inspector when you are requesting your home inspection.

Must I Be at the Home Inspection Home inspectors typically like their clients to be at the inspection. They do realize that many times this is not possible. During a typical inspection, the client, the seller's real estate agent, and the client's real estate agent will attend the home inspection. It is wise for the client to take the time during the home inspection to walk around the house and make a list of questions that they would like to ask the home inspector. Making a list and asking the questions at the end of the inspection is most always preferable to asking individual questions as they come to mind. The more the client interrupts the home inspector, the more likely the home inspector is to overlook something. That is not necessarily a deficiency in the home inspector but a quality of being human. The home inspector is concentrating on doing a good job for the client but the more interruptions, the more likely an error will occur.

Home inspectors generally welcome questions from the client but most like them asked all at once at the end of the inspection. Don't be afraid to ask but also remember that the inspector is not necessarily going to tell you what you want to hear. You are paying them for their unbiased point of view. They are trying their best to provide you with quality information about the current visible condition of your new home so that you will not be unpleasantly surprised in the future.

Once the home inspection is complete, the home inspector will generally review the findings with the client. Many call this their "post inspection interview" and there is no better place to do this than on site. The client can walk around with the home inspector and see the potential issues first hand. This is also the perfect opportunity for the client to ask the inspector about the issues on their list. When Do I Pay for the Home Inspection The home inspection fee is typically paid to the inspector before the inspection report is delivered. Many inspectors prefer to have the money in hand before they begin the inspection process while others may wait until the report is prepared and ready to be delivered. This is a point that will come up so the client can ask the home inspector before the inspection at what point they require payment.

If the client is unable to make the inspection, it is okay to send payment with the realtor or another representative. The client should keep in mind that the home inspector may or may not discuss their findings with the agent. There is confidentiality between the client and the home inspector. The client should designate who can receive the home inspection information other than themselves.

Good Luck!

This should give you an idea of what to expect from a home inspector and how the inspection process will be handled. Each home inspector is different and may use somewhat different techniques. Good luck and best wishes with your home inspection!

Home is the heart of a person. A home provides shelter and safety to human beings. Home is the biggest ever investment of a typical hard working person. We usually notice people working for whole life and finally settling in their own dream home. A home has strong bonding with all the members of the family. As home has such a great importance in our life, how can we not get it inspected before buying one?

Home inspection is exclusively done with the purpose of getting the best home to live in. To get the best deal, you need to hire a professional home inspector. This sheet is a documentation comprising of all the steps involved from the very beginning to the end. This inspection sheet has details about the following:

1. Home Inspection sheets have some basics and It includes the objective, goal and scope of doing inspection. Why we need to have a home inspection and all basics related to inspection in proper documentation.

2. It includes the exact time to start the inspection. A home inspection is done when a purchase contract is signed and its prior to the final purchase and sales agreement. Before signing the purchase contract, you should look for clearly mentioned inspection clause with eyes wide open.

3. Further, comes the most important process of actual inspection of the property for defects. Here a good and reputed professional is hired and all the parts that are to be inspected are clearly mentioned in the documentation. The hired professional must be legally licensed to do the inspection work.

4. Once the inspection has been done, final report is made and shown to both the seller and the buyer and defects are clearly mentioned. Here buyer can have face to face negotiations with the seller. A buyer has the right to make complaints in case of any fraud or if he is misguided by the home inspector to the Division of Professional Licensure and his license can be taken off.

Thus, these are the modules of Home Inspection Sheets.

The question of whether to get a home inspection or not pops up regularly in my conversations about real estate. Rewind the RE memory a few short years ago, when the market was hot; buyers dared not ask for a home inspection. When they were in competition with 5 other offers, they had better offer more than the amount asked, and rethink as many contingencies as possible, even the home inspection contingency.

Fast forward to today, when we're deep into a buyer's market, some might call it "buyer's revenge". When the home has been on the market an average of 120 days, it's probably had a few price reductions, and showings have slowed to a crawl with one every 2 weeks, this is the time for a buyer not to be shy. A home inspection is your right, and is almost always a good idea, even in new construction. Let me relay a couple of stories to illustrate:

A. The buyers had ratified an offer on a newly constructed townhouse, with the help of a buyer's agent. Fortunately the buyers listened to the agent's advice and had a home inspection contingency written into the offer. The afternoon of the inspection, the buyers were sitting in the living room with the inspector as he was finishing up with the last details of the report. They were jolted out of their metal folding chairs with the sound of a series of loud crashes and bangs from the garage. They all rushed out the kitchen door into the garage to see the jacuzzi tub from the master bath sitting amongst the wet drywall rubble. In unison, with mouths gaping open, they raised their wondering gaze to the huge hole in the ceiling.

As it turned out, the plumber had neglected to attach the drainage pipe from the tub to the main in the wall. When the inspector filled the tub, then unplugged it, all that water drained into the floor and drywall. One hour later, the floor gave way. Who would have suspected it in a brand new house?

B. I spent a lovely 2 hours with a first-time buyer and my favorite home inspector. We were at an older home, 75 years old, with over $30,000 in renovations, all beautifully done. We discovered, because a series of fixes had been done by different electricians over the years, that the electrical wiring wasn't even grounded. All the recent electrical work was done by a licensed contractor. He had just missed the fix of a previous fix which altered what had originally been a grounding line. Who would have suspected a licensed electrician would have missed it?

The cost of a home inspection can be anywhere between $300 and $500 on the average house. It is so worth it when you find something major. If you discover something that you just can't live with, like a cracked foundation, egads, the home inspection is the contingency that gets you out of having to buy the home...off the hook, and gets your deposit back. If it's an item that the contract requires to be in working order, and you still want the house, the inspection is the contingency that is your leverage to get the seller to fix it.

I would also argue that it's worth it even when you don't find something major. It's worth the peace of mind. It's worth having a licensed professional going over your future home with a fine-toothed comb, teaching you all about the inward workings of your number 1 investment.

The home inspection is your safety net, buyer. If at all possible, write that contingency in the contract. At worst, you'll give yourself an out. At best, you'll give yourself peace of mind.

If you live in one of the cheaper real estate markets in the country and are thinking about buying a home then you are fortunate compared to other areas where prices are high. But that affordable home can become pretty darn unaffordable in a hurry when a major flaw is discovered. Things like cracked foundations, leaking roofs, malfunctioning water heaters and so on can cost thousands to repair or replace. Having a home inspection done prior to close can save you this expense.

But what types of problems can be gleaned from a home inspection report? Few buyers understand the intricacies of home construction. Fewer still understand the basic componentry. For this reason buyers may often have a hard time interpreting the information provided in a home inspection report. It's often as hard to know what constitutes a properly performed inspection as it is knowing what defects are serious enough to warrant concern.

The widely held belief that home inspectors are certified by HUD is simply not true. What's more, under HUD/FHA guidelines a home inspection is not required for FHA mortgage insurance. HUD simply requires that lenders provide buyers with a copy of a HUD pamphlet entitled, "For Your Protection, Get a Home Inspection". The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) sets certain standards for home inspections. Since the certification and/or licensing requirements for home inspector can vary on a state-by-state basis it is probably a good idea to go with an NACHI-certified inspector. It is also worth noting that home inspectors in many states are not required to be licensed. In certain states, a professional licensing agency will oversee the licensing of home inspectors.

It should also be noted checking for certain to a home's structural or functional integrity requires a license in most states. Examples are formaldehyde, asbestos, organisms known to destroy wood, radon, rodents, etc. Should any of these be a concern with respect to the home you're considering buying then it would be wise to hire an appropriately licensed inspector.

It is the functional and structural parts of a home that are checked for in a typical home inspection. Examples of structural elements include things like roofs, floors, foundations, etc. Things such as drainage, exterior lighting, windows and so on are checked as part of the exterior inspection. Things such as proper ventilation, properly working gutters and sound roof trusses will be checked as part of the roof inspection. Things such as plumbing, water heaters, fireplaces, AC units, etc. are good examples of functional systems. Checking the working order of appliances like stoves, dishwashers and so on is also important.

The purpose of a home inspection is to determine whether or not any significant threats exist which would have negative implications for the health and safety of the occupants or the overall integrity of the home. A leaky or dilapidated roof, a cracked slab or even a faulty air conditioning unit are all examples of significant problems.

Should a serious defect be discovered it would be wise to use a contractor of your own choosing to make the repair since any contractor chosen by the seller will likely have been selected on the basis of price alone. And we all know that you get what you pay for when it comes to contract work.

Since there's no such thing as a perfect construction process, component or material there can also be no such thing as a perfect home. Many small defects, such as chipped paint, spotted carpet, etc. will likely already be factored into the purchase price. Significant problems represent a significant cost. As such, it is these problems with which you should be concerned.

On closing, having a qualified inspector perform a thorough home inspection is the best way to know the true condition of a home you are thinking of buying. Knowing what problems exist beforehand can save literally thousands of dollars. Don't forget that the cost of owning anything is not determined solely by the acquisition price. Maintaining a home is analogous to maintaining your body if proper function and structure are to be ensured.

It is very common in the US real estate industry for the potential buyer to get the home inspected before he signs on the agreement to purchase. There are agencies which specialize in carrying out home inspections for a nominal fee. The fee for home inspection varies between a low of USD 300 to a high of about 600 USD. This is perhaps the most important tool a buyer possesses as a safeguard against inferior quality and defects which are not visible to the naked eye. Most buyers are absolutely unaware about the various components of construction of a house. The home inspection report not only provides a detailed report regarding the quality of components used, defects etc., but the agency also helps the potential buyer to understand the technicalities and contents of the report. The report furnished by the inspection agency could be an eye opener and help you walk out of the deal thereby preventing financial loss. Getting your home inspected would cover all aspects related to

* Structural elements used in the construction of the property -This would check for the quality of material used in the construction of walls, reinforced cement concrete used in flooring, strength of foundation and ceiling.

* Valuation of the exteriors - This includes checking and certifying the quality of exteriors, drainage facilities, window and door frames, lighting provisions and landscaping.

* Roof and Attic - would cover type of roof construction, ventilation and gutters.

* High value components such as water heaters, air-conditioning equipment, furnaces, chimneys and sprinklers and other electrical components such as main electrical panel and circuit breakers. The home inspection report would certify the quality of wiring to give you the necessary protection from electrical risks.

You would be surprised that almost all new homes would have issues highlighted by home inspection. Classify the deficiencies listed in the report into a minor or a major deficiency. If most of the problems are minor, speak to the seller to act on the report and get all the shortcomings fixed. Unless there is a something too damaging and the list contains a lot of major repairs, there is no need to walk out of the deal.

It is essential that you use a trusted and certified home inspection agency. Make sure that the agency has a valid license to undertake inspection. The selected home inspection agency should be a member of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) so that the inspection is carried out in accordance with the stringent norms of NACHI. You must be physically present during the course of entire inspection. This is a valuable experience and makes you wiser for all future assignments. You should avail this opportunity to ask as may questions to the experts and see as to how do they quantify risks. Usually it takes no more than 24 hours from the close of home inspection for the home inspection agency to furnish its detailed report.

So you finally found the home of your dreams in Westchester County. It has the right number of bedrooms, the attached garage and in a great neighborhood. You have looked the home over inside and out. You saw the freshly painted walls, new carpeting, beautiful cabinets and the great backyard. What are you missing? Usually people forget the plumbing, heating, A/C, electrical, insulation, ventilation, the structure and the roof. People usually over look these items because they know so little about them or what to look for. You've now made the offer on the house.

What happens next? Don't forget to have the home inspected. The realtor should have covered the clause in the contract when you signed it. Your offer is contingent upon a home inspection, and you only have a certain amount of time to get it done, or you take the house "as is". This clause will permit you to have an unbiased professional look at every part of the home which most people don't look at. They will look at all the working parts of the home such as the plumbing, the attic, and the basement just to mention a few.

After the home inspection you will be given the opportunity to renegotiate the buying price of the home depending on the information given in the home inspection, or it will make you aware of the exact condition of the home should you decide to purchase it. The seller's disclosure statement is nice and chances are good, the seller is honest, however the seller of the home is not always aware of some of the problems the home might have, because he or she is not aware of them either.

You can ask you realtor for a list of home inspectors in the Westchester area. You can also check the Internet, the phone directory and brochures from the realtors lobby. The majority of home inspectors have their own web site so you can go online where you are able to read the services they offer. Call a few of them to see what you think; get a feel for whom you think might be a quality home inspector. The realtor may offer to hire one for you. Make sure the home inspector hired by the realtor has your best interests at heart should you choose for the realtor to hire one for you. Just keep in mind this is your money and your investment.

When you decide to start shopping around for your home inspector there is some important information you will want to know about the inspector you are considering. Is he or she a licensed inspector by the state? New York is a state, which requires licensing of home inspectors. Make sure to get the inspector's license number. Is he or she affiliated with any home inspection organizations? If they are affiliated with any home inspection organizations, they are bound by a code of ethics to follow very strict rules to maintain their memberships. The best organization is the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors.

How long will the inspection take? For a thorough inspection of your prospective home it will take at least 2+ hours. Anything less, they are likely missing something and not giving you a quality inspection. What type of home inspection report does the inspector use? There are three different ways for the home inspector to generate you a report. You will want a narrative. The inspector will have had time to go over it once or twice before sending it out.

What is his or her experience and background? Most home inspectors will have started out in the construction industry. If the inspector tells you he started out in retail, you may want to keep looking. How much does he or she charge for an inspection? An average home inspection will run from $485 and up, but it does depend on the size of the home. So if you are buying an extremely large home, you should expect to pay more. Most quality home inspectors will ask you to accompany them as they make their inspection, which is probably a good idea. It gives you the opportunity to see everything he does and you have the opportunity to ask questions. This is the opportunity you will have to find the location of the shut-off valves; the breaker panel and you can even get tips of routine maintenance items.

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to have the home you are considering for purchase to be professionally inspected by a quality home inspector, or if you are thinking of putting up your home for sale. This is your lifelong investment whether you are buying or selling your home. It is a choice you do not want to make lightly.

Certified Home Inspector, Mold Inspection Jacksonville Florida
Informed Decisions Certified Home Inspections LLC
Attention to detail and the highest standards for customer satisfaction are what makes Informed Decisions Certified Home Inspections the first choice for home inspections in the Jacksonville area.

I have over 10 years of experience as a quality assurance inspector. I have found that my experience is unique to Home Inspections in that I have years of experience to pull from with a trained eye on what to look for in potential problems that may only appear small at the time. . I have found that unlike builders, my experience is unique to Home Inspections in that I have years of experience to pull from with a trained eye on what to look for in potential problems that may only appear small at the time. Whereas builders only know one thing...how to build it, I find defects in areas that often go unseen by another Inspector that only can give you a limited report based upon his or her limited knowledge. I have received 300 hours of education in all aspects of home inspections by the American Home Inspectors Training Institute (AHIT). I continually take other education courses in order to keep current with industry standards and provide you with the best service possible.

The state of Florida has no regulations of the home inspection industry. That is why you should look for an inspector that is a member of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). I am a member of NACHI. NACHI is the only industry organization that requires its members to pass an entrance exam to become a member. Another requirement of NACHI is that all inspectors requesting membership submit inspection reports for review. All reports are looked at for accuracy and compliance with NACHI's strict standards of practice. Most other organizations have candidate level designations that do not require experience, education, or examination to become a member. In fact, over 50% of the applicants fail the (NACHI) exam and are not granted membership. I am also a certified mold inspector. I include FREE mold screening inspections with every home inspection. [http://www.idcertifiedhi.com]

When you hire Informed Decisions Certified Home Inspections, you will get an honest thorough, detailed inspection accompanied by a comprehensive computer generated report. The report includes digital pictures and is easy to understand. Everything identified during the inspection will be included in the report. Armed with the information in your report you will be better able to make an INFORMED DECISION with confidence and better negotiate your home purchase. All reports are available the same day as the inspection. Out of town clients enjoy the convenience of online reports with scheduled phone consultations (at your convenience, not mine) to answer any questions you may have. We can ensure you of an accurate and impartial inspection. To avoid conflict of interest I neither solicit work nor recommend any repair services.

Are you in the market for a new home? After months of searching you have finally found your dream home. It may not be a brand new house, but it has everything that you have always wanted in a home. But it should not be a simple matter to just pay for it and then move in. You will have to think of the home inspection checklist which a qualified building inspector will go through.

Why is a home inspection important? First of all, it is for your own benefit to have the house go through a building inspection. Especially if you are going to live there with your own family, you certainly would want it to be the safest home that you can buy for them.

Building inspectors usually have previously worked as an engineer, architect, electrician, carpenter, and any other profession related to the building industry. Aside from their certification, these ensure that they are qualified to offer their home inspection services.

While in every city or suburb there are a long list of home inspection services, you should first approach your real estate broker if he can recommend a reliable building inspector. All brokers know at least one inspector since they are always working in the real estate industry.

Here is a short home inspection checklist. Go over it so you can at least have an idea on what to expect once the residential building inspector arrives.

1. Structure of the house.

The inspector will check all the walls, the columns, the foundation, the ceilings, and more to see if all are in good condition. He will note any crack or weakness that he will see.

2. Electrical

Does the electrical wiring of the house comply with the regulations of the government? Are all the power connections in good working condition? The building inspector will ensure that all are fine and will not cause any short circuiting or be a fire hazard.

3. Plumbing

He will look into the pipe materials used by the builder or if there are any modifications made. A sewage inspection may or may not be included in the home inspection checklist.

4. Pests

Pests are major health hazards and most building inspectors will also conduct a pest inspection and should they find any, they would recommend the appropriate pest control service for it.

5. Fire safety inspection

A building inspector will check if there any violations with the fire safety code of the city. While this is often the responsibility of the fire department, most home inspectors will include this in their checklist. They would recommend placement of fire extinguishers where these are necessary and other fire precaution equipment and standards.

There are more items included in any home inspection checklist but those listed above are some of the basic or most common. Since buying a home is very important to you and your family, you must make sure that you are getting a qualified building inspector to help you decide if the house is a good buy or if it is time to start looking again.

One of the many aspects of home inspection is checking the plumbing system. Water is indeed very vital for us to live, but water-related problems can be caused by improperly installed plumbing systems. The home inspector will check and test the water supply and distribution within the house, and there are many things that are covered by these.

To start off, the home inspector will first go to the location of the main water valve. Since this is the main shutoff device, this is the best place to check on the plumbing system of the house. After that, the inspector will go to see the water heating equipment, which includes the bracing, combustion air, connections, sources of energy, and venting. He will then verify if there are valves present or not.

The home inspection will then proceed to testing and ensuring that the plumbing fixtures are working. The ways to do this are by flushing toilets, and by running water in faucets, sinks, showers, and tubs. Thus, water supply can be verified in all fixtures by this method. In addition, the drain, vent, and waste systems will also be inspected while testing out the interior water supply.

If there are any fuel storage systems around, these might be described by the home inspector as well. The inspector will also provide descriptions of the drain, main fuel shut-off valve, waste, and water supply. The locations of other valves will also be included in the report as a part of home inspection.

The home inspector will also determine whether the home's water supply is private or public. Along with this information, he will also include in his report any needed repairs from defects or deficiencies seen when operating two or more fixtures simultaneously. Improperly installed and misidentified hot and cold faucets will also be included in the inspector's written report.

Other defects in the plumbing system include dysfunctional lavatories, sinks, and tubs. Ceramic cracks, leaks, and tanks that do not operate properly are also considered defectives. Although the home inspector checks a lot of things regarding the plumbing system, he is not required to test washing machines or evaluate the qualities of water heaters, such as their waiting time and life expectancy.

Other things that a home inspection isn't required of covering are determining the adequacy, flow rate, pressure, quality, temperature, or volume of water, evaluating the code compliance of the water supple with regard to energy conservation, and examining auxiliary components. Inspecting private sewage systems, water storage tanks, and water treatment systems, and evaluating gas storage tanks are also not required.

Water is definitely a key element to survival. It is undeniable that it is an important aspect to daily living, so it is but necessary to have the plumbing system inspected by the home inspector to ensure safety and to foresee any water-related problems. But water can also bring damage to homes, as revealed by a proper and thorough home inspection. Water may keep us alive, but if it is disregarded, water can also be a factor for a damaged and defective home.

Home inspection is a service business that has fluctuations in the amount of business that an inspector can expect to do. There are things that smart business owners can do so as to smooth out the low times of the year and to fill in any slow days.

The worst number in business is the number "one". By this I mean that to depend upon only one source of income or type of work or service that you leaves the business owner at a disadvantage. By being dependent on one source of income or type of work you do you are restricting the opportunities that are available to you. When a home inspector restricts his income to only home inspections for first time home buyers he is limiting the number of clients he can serve. Add the service of doing condo inspections and that person has added another income stream or service he can do.

There are several other services an inspector can add to the services he or she provides. Inspectors have all heard of done wood destroying insect inspections, radon, mold inspections, home energy audits, etc. These are important inspections that are conducted when a home is being purchased. These types of inspections are also vulnerable to the real estate market. What happens when the number of homes being sold decreases? The number of inspections for these other inspections decrease as well. However by being able to provide these other inspections you are closer to being a one-call-does-all solution and may not suffer as much of a decrease as that home inspector that does only home inspections for first time home buyers.

It is not necessary that a business would need to reduce the marketing that they do for the primary business so as to have an extra service to provide. The goal when adding a service is to increase overall the amount of work provided. This is done by maintaining the amount of primary work done and adding other services. Hopefully the other services added will not be vulnerable to the same influences that have effect on the primary service.

The Winter is traditionally a slower time of year for home inspections. This is especially true in colder climates. How would providing a service to current homeowners that would be of benefit to them during the cold weather or just before the cold weather really sinks in help your income? Such as Winter Preparation Inspections. This service may be especially beneficial to the elderly. There are other services that can be offered that are not in direct conflict to the neutrality that a home inspector is supposed to have in regards to a homes condition. Diversify your business and keep your income consistent. But as always you must market your home inspection business and any other services you offer.

Getting a professional home inspection is a very smart decision. It doesn't matter whether you are a buyer or a seller -- there are good reasons to get a home inspection as soon as possible.

Coming from the seller's perspective, you want to get the top price for your home. If you have an inspection done before you list your home, you may get more potential buyers interested. People want to feel safe with the home they are buying!

It's also important to note that if you list your home without realizing that something may be wrong with it, it might cause a buyer to back out of the sale! Knowing everything about your home before listing is just a smart thing to do.

If you are a buyer purchasing a home -- then you definitely need a professional home inspection. You do not want to purchase a home without knowing if there are any safety issues or repairs that the seller should take care of before selling. Note that you should get your own inspection done even if the seller has done their own inspection.

Of course, you definitely have to go with a qualified professional. The chances are that there are many home inspectors in your area. Some of them are better than others. You want someone who does a thorough job and who will check every aspect of your home (or future home!).

Unfortunately, some buyers do not realize how important this home inspection is. This is commonly the case with the people who purchase new construction because they think there couldn't possibly be anything wrong. Nothing could be further from the truth. It's important to reiterate that every person buying or selling a home needs a home inspection, without question!

You might look in your local phone book or even online to find a home inspector. Personal references are always a good thing as well. You want someone who has a stellar reputation so you know the job has been done properly. Don't be afraid to interview a professional inspector to make sure you're making the right decision.

Clearly, the home inspection is needed for both safety reasons and financial reasons. Sellers should do it to entice buyers and eliminate surprises later on. Buyers should do it to make sure they are making a sound investment since buying a home is the largest purchase many will make. A good home inspector is an essential part of the buying and selling process in real estate.

The belief that any new product is free of defects and necessarily flawless runs contrary to common sense and experience. The return counter at any department store provides ample evidence of this fact. When applied to new homes, the belief that new means perfect can lead to very costly mistakes.

Many home buyers feel that they do not need to employ a professional home inspector because municipal building inspectors regularly inspect new homes. Let me personally tell you that a municipal inspection is not enough. The purpose, scope, time allotment and procedures are not the same for municipal inspections as they are for home inspections on the behalf of Buyers.

Home Buyers need to understand that many building inspectors are seeing over 12-15 homes a day and are inspecting primarily for code compliance's, and not for quality of workmanship. They can cite a builder for improper structural framing or for non-complying drain connections, but a poorly fitted door, improper installation of components, unprofessional installation of wiring, an uneven tile counter top and shoddy finish work are not on their list of concerns. Municipal inspectors rarely inspect an attic or a sub-area crawlspace. They come to the job site with a clipboard and a code book, not with a ladder, high-tech tools and overalls. Construction defects in such areas can escape discovery. Municipal inspectors typically inspect a roof from the ground or possibly from the builder's ladder. From these perspectives, roof defects are not always apparent.

Municipal inspections are performed before the utilities are turned on, so municipal inspectors cannot determine if the appliances and fixtures work. They don't test outlets for ground and polarity because this can be done only after the power is turned on. Nor, without power, can they test the performance of GFCI or AFCI safety breakers. Because there is no water or gas yet, municipal inspectors can't test plumbing fixtures such as sinks, showers, tubs and dishwashers, or gas fixtures such as furnaces, fireplaces and water heaters.

The municipal inspector is not looking at specific construction practices that tend to determine if a home is going to be a trouble-free investment or one that will require significant modification and repair in the future. As I previously mentioned, they are primarily code compliance inspectors. In the past, I've always picked up on many building or safety infractions that municipal building officials had totally ignored. I've never performed a newly constructed home inspection that was totally flawless. Your home inspection report will always contain a list of items that need to be corrected. There is no perfect home. So, a professional home inspection on a brand new home is always beneficial. As one municipal inspector has stated in the past..."What we do is a cursory inspection, we do not check everything. That is not our job. We don't even warrant the work. We are going to look for the big stuff." The keyword here is "BIG STUFF". My question is... How do they find the BIG STUFF on a simple cursory inspection?

Another interesting fact is, anyone who has worked in the construction field can tell stories of the shortcuts and human errors that routinely occur, even on the best built of homes. Workmen have bad days, materials can have defects, details can be overlooked, components can be omitted, and municipal building inspectors can have too little time to check every nook and cranny within the house.

So the choice is yours. If you still would like to take chances on waiving your home inspection on your newly constructed home, I seriously think you're making a big mistake and I honestly wish you the best of luck. There is a lot of shoddy construction out there and the construction errors I find on a daily basis is absolutely astonishing. Maybe this news clip will help you make your decision.

http://www.masscertifiedhomeinspections.com

It is an exciting time in the home inspection industry with technology now playing such an important role. Home inspection software is utilizing the very latest in technology and home inspectors are reaping the benefits. Below is a list of some of the key benefits of using a smartphone or tablet pc in the field for creating home inspection reports.

An Abundance of Choices

Home inspectors are now able to use their home inspection software on the latest smartphones and tablets that run on iOS and Android operating systems. This gives them a huge selection of hardware to choose from for field use. This is important because they can find something that truly works well for them and fits their inspection style. Inspectors that want something small that fits in their hand can use their software on their smartphone, while inspectors who prefer something a little larger can use their software on a tablet.

Ease of Use

These devices are designed to be easy to use and home inspection software can be built to take advantage of their unique features. For example, an inspector is able to fill out information with the tap of a finger. They can also move from screen to screen with a simple swipe of their finger. Filling out information for an inspection and creating a fantastic looking report has never been easier.

Cloud

A few home inspection software programs that work on new smartphones and tablets use a cloud to transfer files back and forth. This is a really great feature as it eliminates the need for cords and wires when attempting to sync inspection files between your device and a desktop. A cloud is a safe and convenient place where home inspectors can store inspections, libraries, and even backup files. It can be accessed by any computer with an internet connection and that has their software program installed.

Camera

Some home inspection software programs even take advantage of the exceptional cameras that now come standard on most smartphones and tablets. Many of the new, higher end smartphones come with an 8 MP camera. Using their home inspection software on a smartphone with a quality camera, inspectors no longer have to bring a separate digital camera with them. The ability to take a picture with their smartphone and then add that picture directly into the report will be a huge timesaver for home inspectors. Using a single device, a home inspector can complete an inspection in the field, with great looking pictures included. Tablets trail smartphones when it comes to cameras and picture quality, but many of the newer ones are being equipped with a 5 MP camera.
Although cameras have improved dramatically with these devices, many still lack when it comes to the flash. Some devices do not have a flash while others contain a weak flash. It will be up to the inspector to decide if the camera on their smartphone or tablet is sufficient enough for them to use for their home inspections.

Battery

Another benefit to using a smartphone or tablet is the battery life that comes with many of these devices. Smartphones typically can last at least a whole day with moderate use, while tablets can last days with moderate use and even weeks with light use and Wi-Fi turned off. These are much better than most laptops and netbooks which typically get 4-5 hours out of a single charge. However, the battery life between devices varies greatly, so it is important to check the details of each device before committing to one.

Convenience

Using a smartphone or tablet in the field is also extremely convenient because of their lightweight and how easy it is to carry them around. These devices are very portable, and are constantly getting smaller and weighing less as time goes on. Inspectors who haul a laptop around the property while doing their inspection will notice a major difference when walking around with a smartphone or tablet.

Should I spend the money to get a home inspection before purchasing a new home? This question is asked more by clients who are really tight on the money they have to spend toward the purchase. I always stress that a home inspection report will help them make an informed decision about whether they can truly afford to buy the home. So as a rule I always recommend that we get expert advice about the true condition of any home the buyer is considering purchasing,

Home inspections are very beneficial, some clients think they are a little pricey but you have to look at the big picture. Would you not rather spend $500-$600 in inspection to find out if you really want to spend 100's of 1000's of dollars on a home? If the inspector finds major problems you can get out of the contract and save yourself a lot of money by not purchasing a (money pit). If the inspector only finds minor and maintenance issues you can look at the home inspection as a fact-finding (honey do list) that you will spend the first year working on to make sure that you are protecting you investment. All in all I think home inspections are a very good investment in your investment and your satisfaction as a new home owner.

Most Realtor's have had a lot of experience working with home inspectors. You want to make sure you choose the right inspector for your home. Make sure they have had the professional training associated with home sale inspections and also make sure they will give you a comprehensive report of their finding. A professional home inspection will allow you to buy your new home with the confidence that you are making a wise investment..

A good home inspector will look at all the major components of the home. If access is available they should even inspect the attic space and crawl space of the home. Most good inspectors will take between 3-4 hours to complete an inspection many will give you the written report immediately after the inspection with pictures of areas of concern.

Now the best benefit of having a home inspection is that now you have written proof to take back to the seller about the true condition of the home. Here is you opportunity to either re-negotiate the sale price of get the seller to make some repairs before the closing.

Home inspections can also be very helpful to sellers before listing the homes; I will cover that in a follow-up article.

Buying a home is an aspiration thing, so whatever you think of it there are people who are buying a home or selling a home and those who are either buying or selling usually will need a home inspector to make sure that the property is mechanically and structurally sound. Millions of homes are bought and sold each year and the savviest of the savvy buyers would need the services of the home inspector to protect their interests.

With that in mind, in nowadays being a home inspector would be a good profession .You can be your own boss and start running your own home inspection services business or you can become a professional working with a home inspection services firm.

What it entails is that as a home inspector you make sure that buyer and the real estate agent know about the costly repairs that may need to be done to home. Armed with that knowledge they can then negotiate for a better process from the seller. A typical home inspection would take about 2-5 hours and a home inspector charges an average of $200-$500 for a home inspection.

To become a home inspector you need take a course which allow you to become a qualified home inspector, then you need to get a membership of professional organization and also keep that membership on an ongoing basis by taking certain courses or qualifying examinations. Another important aspect in modern world is that you would need to have the knowledge of latest trends in home inspection software, as that can make your job easier and also make you look more professional.

There are several courses available for you to start however I would recommend that you make sure to take an apprenticeship with a reputed home inspector and do the course alongside as that will help you gain some on the field expertise.

When buying a home there are lots of details to consider. One consideration is to decide to have a home inspection or not have it done. One of the concerns that I frequently find during home inspections is fire hazards. Home fire cost millions of dollars of damage every year and kill or destroy the live of many. Below are some examples of the type of fire hazards I find on a near daily basis. Most of the issues are things people are not aware of in that home.

When doing a home inspection I locate safety issues that the new home owner should be aware of so they can have it repaired or improved. Often the items found are easily corrected.

One very common concern I find especially in attics and basements is concerning wire splices. Home owners will add wires to run power for a new outlet or fixture somewhere and not use a covered junction box to contain the wire splices. Junction boxes are designed to prevent a person from accidentally contacting live wires. Some non handyman apparently that is all what the boxes are for and assumes the wires will not be touched if in an attic or some other out of the way area. The junction box has also the important function of containing any sparks that may occur. These sparks have the ability to start fires. When I am in an attic and see uncovered junction boxes surrounded by and sometimes partially filled with flammable cellulose insulation that is an important fire safety item to be corrected.

The city does not matter, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Columbus, etc all areas can have fire safety issue that are found during a home inspection. The issue is not the city building code, the cause of the issues is usually the result of a home owner doing improvements in a non professional manner.

Another fire safety issue found during home inspections is regarding the installation of insulation. With home owners trying more than ever to save on heating and cooling bills they are installing more insulation and at times installing it wrong. The vapor barriers on many blankets of insulation is flammable and should be installed in specific manner to reduce fire potential and spread. Many people simply do not realize the situations that can be created.

There are other fire hazards that are found during the course of my home inspections. These were just a few example. When buying a home get it inspected.

Often when people consider having a home inspection they are in process of buying a home and want to have the whole home inspected. This is perfectly fine and wise to do. It is also possible to hire a home inspector to look at only specific systems of a home as a way to save some money. A Central Ohio home inspector explains the reasons why it is important to have at least a partial home inspection.

If you were purchasing a home in which the roof was replaced within the past year you may feel comfortable with not having that aspect of the home inspected. You would especially be more likely to not worry about the roof if the roof came with a transferable warranty. You should still have it checked out, I have seen new roofs put on that were done poorly and those that lacked the proper ventilation which will result in rapid aging and moisture issues.

Roofing systems are a major part of any home. It is important that roofs be leak free and well ventilated to prevent water damage, rot and mold growth. When buying a home and you are considering not having the home inspected, rethink that. At least have aspects of the home inspected such as the roof, electrical, foundation, attic space, furnace and air conditioner. There are lots of systems in a home.

If you already own your home you can still request to have a home inspector take a look at certain aspects of your home. These inspections are often referred to as maintenance inspections. If you have a roof that is more than a few years old then you may want to contact a home inspector to climb on to your roof and examine how things are holding up. Home inspectors do not get paid to do repair work. Because they do not do repairs you can feel more certain that any issues found during the inspection are real and not motivated through a desire to do repair work.

Common areas to have a home inspector check for in your own home are those areas you never or rarely enter such as the attic, roof and crawl space. These areas should get looked at once a year to make certain that ant small issues can be taken care of before the issues become larger and more expensive problems. As a home owner have a home inspector check these areas for you.

Why You Should Have Your Home Inspected by a Professional

1. Firstly, you are not likely to be able to objectively evaluate the home you are in the process of buying. The purchase of a home is an emotional experience. Even if you are very familiar with construction, electrical, plumbing and other trades, etc. it is not likely that you will be objective about the condition of the home. You will see the beautiful back yard, or the beamed ceiling in the living room, or be thrilled to have a wood burning fireplace, but you may not notice antiquated and hazardous electrical wiring, water and drain pipes that are at the end of their service life, structural defects or termite infestation, or any of the hundreds of problems we have disclosed in homes that have been inspected by professionals.

2. Secondly, the cost of a professional home inspection is very low in cost compared to the cost of the home or the cost of potential repairs for defects that may need to be corrected. You are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars for the home. A home inspection costs a small fraction of the price of the home. I know people that have pre-owned automobiles inspected by mechanics before they buy. The mechanics charge about $100.00 for this service. The car may cost $10,000.00. That's 1% of the cost of the car for the inspection. The fee most professional home inspectors charges for a home inspection is typically $595.00 for a 4 bedroom/ 2.5 bathroom home. If the home costs $595,000, then our fee is only one tenth of one percent of the price of the home. Your realtor will charge the homeowner 5% or 6% of the price to sell the home, and that amounts to about $25,000 commission, which increases your cost indirectly. As you can see, a home inspection is very inexpensive relative to the other costs involved.

3. The 3rd reason is that homes can have health and safety hazards present that you may not be aware of.. When a home inspection is done by a professional home inspector the first concern is disclosing potential safety hazards, and then the condition of the structure, electrical, plumbing, roof etc. Did you know that most decks and stairs that we inspect have safety issues? Did you know that most of the older homes we inspect have electrical hazards created by modifications or additions done by unqualified persons? Did you know that many older homes have furnaces that are so old that it is likely that they can be lethal? Did you know that chimneys, especially in older homes, usually have internal defects that can result in fires or carbon monoxide poisoning? We look for all of these potential safety hazards and more when we do an inspection.

4. The 4th reason to have a professional perform the home inspection, is that all home inspectors do not all have the same credentials, and some of the inspectors are not professionals by credentialing or experience. You should shop for a home inspector the same way you would choose any other professional that you will be trusting with your welfare. Just as in any profession, prices range from ridiculously low to unreasonably high. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. Experienced highly qualified home inspectors command higher prices than less qualified or less experienced inspectors. Home inspectors that provide narrative reports rather than check list reports charge more because it takes time to properly prepare the report. Home inspectors that have extra credentials, such as Engineering degrees and special certifications, command a higher price.

5. A home inspection done by a professional will provide an objective assessment of the condition of the home. If the home inspection report discloses material defects in the home that you were not aware of when you made the initial purchase offer, then you may be able to negotiate the price of the home downward to allow for repairs or replacements. If the furnace needs to be replaced it could cost about $3500.00, If the roof needs replacement it may cost $6000.00. Compare these costs that you may partly or completely recover in the negotiation process with the cost of the home inspection, and you will realize that a home inspection may save you a lot of money.

Once you have found a home and are prepared to submit an offer, you want to be sure that the home does not have cleaning and costly structural or mechanical problem. That is where a home inspection comes in. Smart home buyers often include the contingency and their offer specified that the contract is not binded until they obtain a satisfactory physical inspection report.

It is also advised that you get a mold inspection as most insurance policies do not cover mold damage. Upon arrival, a qualified inspector makes general introduction and describes what is going to take place. The inspector then explains the inspection agreement and gives you an opportunity to review and sign it.

Next, the inspector takes you to a detailed walk-through at the home. The inspector is like a doctor who looks at observable indications of problems. Since the home inspection is a visual examination of accessible components of the house and home inspector can examine only what he sees, items that are hidden from view such as plumbing inside the walls are not directly inspected but are tested for functionality.

Your inspection is not just an evaluation of the home but should also be an informative experience for you. A good inspector will show you the locations of the main electrical, water and gas shut offs. They will identify the locations of all homeowner controls and instruct you how to work each component. Not only does the inspector show you how to operate the controls of the whole system but he also tests the operability of systems using the same homeowner controls. By the time the home inspection is complete all permanent appliances in the house will be tested to make sure they are in good order.

A well-reputable home inspection company will stand behind its work; keep in mind that a home's condition will change over time. The home inspection is a report of the home's condition on a certain date, on a single point in time. The inspector is looking at the snap shot of the house and reporting what he saw, how things work and the condition of the home systems of that particular day. If the roof leaks a year later, unless there is evidence of the developing problem, the inspector cannot foresee the leak. Inspectors do however look for a known indicator of the problems such as water stains, mold or mildew.

It is important to remember that a home inspection is different from a code inspection. The function of a home inspection is to evaluate the condition of the property not to determine whether it conform the code. A home inspection is also different from an appraisal. An appraiser looks at the house and uses specific criteria to help determine its value whereas an inspector looks at the house only to determine its condition.

After a thorough examination of the home, the inspector completes a report for you. The whole procedure takes two to three hours depending on the age and size of the house. Remember that while the buyer usually pays for the inspection, the inspector is an impartial third party whose only job is to evaluate the condition of the home. The results of the home inspection are given in confidence. The inspectors do not have the right to discuss the inspection results to anyone else including the seller without your permission. Be sure that your inspector is from a reputable company. Seek recommendation from your friends, family or your real estate agent.

Buying a home is one of the largest investments that you will ever make and it is important that your inspector is well qualified to evaluate the property's condition on your behalf.

If you're thinking of selling your home, have it inspected by a professional home inspector. A home inspection is not an appraisal of your home's value, but you'll get a report from your inspector about the condition of your home which should lead you to take steps that will make it more marketable and possibly raise its value. At least you'll have greater confidence in knowing it's worth the asking price.

A pre-sale home inspection is a worthwhile investment with several benefits. It gives you the opportunity to make any necessary repairs now that will put the house in better selling condition. You'll have the satisfaction of knowing you're doing the right thing for the people who will be buying your home. The fewer apprehensions they have, the greater the chance they'll buy. They want fewer hassles after moving in, too.

Granted, it can be disappointing for you if an inspection finds serious problems. However, dealing with things right away means less chance of worry or regret on the part of the buyer. There's less chance of a deal going sour. Also, you'll make the home even easier to sell by having it inspected again after repairs have been done. Making the revised report available should make the deal go more smoothly.

A pre-sale inspection alerts you to specific maintenance tasks you can do to make your home more appealing, such as trimming trees and shrubs that touch or overhang the house. It's likely that new caulking and weather-stripping around windows and doors is in order. What about cleaning gutters or repairing and replacing cracked or broken gutters, downspouts, and extensions? That will ensure proper drainage and prevent water from leaking into the basement and foundation. Replace bathroom caulk or grouting where necessary to prevent more seepage. Plus, it will look nicer.

Fixing the little things makes a good impression on your prospective buyer. For example, repair leaky faucets, tighten loose doorknobs, replace broken window panes and damaged screens, and thoroughly clean the clothes dryer vent, to name a few. You may want to replace a broken doorbell with either a doorknocker or wireless, battery operated doorbell.

Your home inspection report will also alert you to safety matters you'll want to take care of. For example, be sure smoke detectors are installed on each level in strategic places. Keep flammable products away from heaters, water heaters, and fireplaces. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI's) in "wet" areas, such as kitchen counter tops, bathrooms and exterior outlets.

Of course, it's the bigger defects which definitely need your attention in order to make the home more marketable. The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) surveyed its members and found that one of the most frequent problems listed on an inspection report was improper grading and drainage around the outside of the house. This can cause basement moisture problems and sometimes soil erosion, which may lead to structural failure of the foundation.

Another common problem area listed was the electrical system. That included situations such as insufficient electrical overload protection and potentially dangerous amateur wiring.

Other commonly reported problems include roof damage and mechanical problems with the heating and air conditioning systems.

In summary, a pre-sale home inspection helps you determine the condition of your home so you can take steps to make it more appealing to prospective buyers. When you act proactively, you demonstrate your integrity and protect yourself and the buyer from potential problems later.

It's odd, because when you are considering making a home purchase it seems as if the more people that you talk to the more the opinions on it will vary. Many seem to have a bit of reservation about them that all they are is a visual inspection of the home followed by a short written report. First of all, there is no doubt that buying a home in New York is a major purchase and likely one of the biggest purchases that you will make in your lifetime. There are not many who can afford to have their home purchase turn bad. The whole purpose of buying this house in the first place is as an investment, a safe place to call home, a place to raise a family, somewhere that you can just be happy. Now getting off topic for just a second, it is also likely that you are using the equity from your former home towards your new potential home, if indeed you have owned a previous home. It might appear as if that has nothing to do with home inspections but the two are linked because selling and buying a home are probably both equally as stressful. Sometimes the uncertainty accompanied with the burden of stress can skew your thinking and sometimes your common sense.

There are so many misconceptions about pre purchase home inspections from all standpoints starting with the seller. They usually could care less about the inspection as they feel they have nothing to gain and only stand to lose. This is so untrue but often people do not stop and really give that any thought. No matter what shape the owner feels his/her New York property is in, the smartest thing they can do is spend the few dollars necessary for an accurate home inspection. Spending these few dollars in the beginning will save you major dollars and stress in the end. If the owner has this information in advance, even before listing the house on the market, it helps the seller plan accordingly and prices the house accordingly too. The seller can either make repairs himself or at least get bids from contractors to show the potential buyers when working out a price.

Most everyone thinks that a home inspection is only for the "protection" of the buyer. That is only partly true. Yes, the purpose of the inspection is to reveal any unknown issues with the house but by no means does the buyer order the pre purchase inspection to make the house out to look bad, remember the buyer is hoping more than anyone that the inspections turns out favorable. They just want the inspection to validate their decision to make the purchase. The buyer wants to know if there are any big ticket items that need to be addressed or maybe even a bunch of smaller issues. The New York home inspection is actually your first in depth "get acquainted" look at your new home because it covers information on so many of the homes' components, systems, utilities and their locations. If your home inspector is like most concerned inspectors', he is your source for information that you can turn to long after the close of escrow when everyone else involved in the deal has disappeared.

Olympian Civil Home and Building Inspections (866) 476-2056

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The cost of a home inspection can be the cheapest money ever spent on your part. The $300 to $500 it might cost for an inspection could easily save you thousands of dollars in repairs and maintenance cost you could incur after you have bought the house and moved in. It is not to say that homes should not or do not have maintenance issues or repair problems, most do. This is where the home inspection comes in, to identify the various maintenance issues or repair problems, and make them known to the perspective buyer. The buyer can take this information and use it as an integral part of his decision-making process.

A thorough home inspection by a certified home inspector will examine the many components of a home. He will visually examine:

1. The site for hazards, water drainage, vegetation that may adversely affect the structure, signs of soil instability, and various hard surfaces.

2. Inspect the visible foundation, floor framing, roof framing, and other support structures that may be applicable.

3. The exterior inspection should include wall coverings, coatings, and sealants around wall penetrations, stairs, decks, handrails, and soffits.

4. The roof may be examined from the ground or ladder where it is unsafe to walk on the roof due to the slope of the roof or unsafe slippery conditions. The roof inspection includes roofing materials, flashings, gutters and downspouts, and any roof penetrations.

5. Plumbing components include visible water supply and waste lines, vent lines, fixtures and faucets, and water heating equipment.

6. The electrical system panel, wiring, circuit breakers, safety devices where required such as GFCI receptacles, and lighting fixtures will all be inspected closely for proper operation and safety hazards.

7. The HVAC system components that are inspected include the fuel source, furnace, ductwork, flue pipes, chimney, venting, and operating controls such as thermostats. The air conditioning may not be tested if the ambient air temperature has not been above 60°F for a minimum of 24 hours.

8. The interior walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, stairways, and handrails are examined for condition, operation, and safety. Fireplace dampers are operated, fireboxes inspected, and gas logs operated.

9. Attic spaces are entered when safe, type and amount of insulation is checked, roof structure is inspected, and exhaust vents checked for exhausting to the outside.

10. Crawlspaces and or basements are entered when possible. Adequate ventilation is checked, support posts, footings, intermediate wall support, vapor barrier, and cracked foundations. Conducive conditions for wood destroying organisms are checked, including the presence of standing water, earth-wood contact, wood or cellulose debris, and plumbing leaks. Finally, Wood Destroying Organisms (WDO) and damage from WDO's is inspected. WDO's include termites, Carpenter ants and Moisture ants, Anobiid Beetles, and rot fungus that is generally referred to as dry rot.

Yes, I think a home inspection fee is well worth the money it costs. A home purchase is generally the largest investment a family makes, and like any investment, surprises are not welcome.