Inspections

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Inspections - What They Are and Why You Need Them

Why should I pay for a home (property) inspection?

No matter how intelligent or experienced you may be, no one can tell how much work is needed on a home just by looking at it. You can't see if there is a problem with the electrical system, if the furnace's heat exchanger is cracked or if the foundation is sound without a home inspection.

Loan Officers and Real Estate Agents are not qualified to advise you about a home's physical condition. This is why it is necessary to hire a home inspector.

What are the qualities of a good home inspector?

A good property home inspector is a full-time professional, not part time. The inspector carries errors-and-omissions insurance and is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). They typically conduct between 100 to 300 inspections per year (this number varies in different areas). Many inspectors have backgrounds in related fields, such as electricity, plumbing, architecture, engineering, construction or insurance claim adjusting. Experience in these areas will certainly help with your home inspection. Nevertheless, your inspector should never offer to do anything other than inspect the property. Any inspector who offers to do the corrective work is creating a conflict of interest to their advantage.

Should I be at the inspection?

Your inspector should also insist that you are present during the property inspection. Even if the house is in perfect condition, your inspector will be able to show you where important items are located, such as: circuit breakers, emergency shut off valves, switches, water systems and more. If it is impossible for you to be at the inspection, make sure you have someone you can trust there on your behalf, such as your agent, a friend or a relative.

What is the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)?

ASHI is a professional association of independent home inspectors. All certified members have performed at least 250 property inspections and have passed two written exams to become a member. They must adhere to ASHI's standards of practice, continuing education requirements and code of ethics.

What does the pre-purchase inspection cover?

Your property inspection should cover all of the property's major structural and mechanical systems inside and out, from the roof to the foundation. A thorough property inspection usually takes about two hours. Remember that you should accept nothing less than a written report.

Should the seller's agent be present during the inspection?

The sellers are more likely to accept the findings of the inspector if their own agent was present during the inspection. The seller will also know that a skilled professional inspected their home. This will help you during negotiations, as the seller will know that they have a legitimate problem that needs to be fixed, whether or not you purchase their home.

How much does the inspection cost?

Many home inspectors base their pricing for inspections on the square footage of the home. Usually the fees charged by competent inspectors are pretty similar. Don't get caught up in $25 off coupons. You definitely don't want a new inspector practicing on you.

Why do I need an inspection if I am buying new construction?

An inspection for new construction is at least as important as if you are purchasing a pre-owned home. It is best to catch any problems early. People are human and problems do occur. Even if the finest team of builders collaborated to construct your home, there could be any number of problems that can't be seen just by looking at them. An inspection guarantees that the home you are buying is up to par. Besides, it's better to find out right away about any problems. It can save you a lot of money.

What types of inspections are there?

The standard home inspection is not the only one that is available. In fact, depending on where you live, some other inspections are required. Talk to your Loan Officer to see what, if any, additional inspections you will need to have done. Some examples of different types of inspections include, but are not limited to, the following.