Quality Home Inspections

Have An Expert Inspection Scheduled

The Inspection Process

A home inspection is defined as a limited, visual examination of the physical structure and major interior systems of a residential building consisting of one to four dwelling units. It should be understood that there are certain risks inherent in the purchase of property and a home inspection is inherently limited in its scope and depth. The information gained from home inspection conforming to national, organizational and state-specific standards of practice may reduce some of those risks, but the home inspection is not intended to provide the client with protection from all of the risks involved in the purchase of a home.

Our inspection process can be likened to a physical exam by a Doctor; however, it should be clearly understood that a home inspection is not to be confused with an appraisal, a building code inspection, a guarantee or warranty of any kind, and/or an insurance policy on the condition of the property.

During an inspection, the inspector will review the readily accessible exposed areas of the structure of the home, including the roof, attic, interior walls, ceilings, floors, windows, interior & exterior doors, basement, and foundation as well as the electrical system, heating/air conditioning systems and plumbing for potential problems.

A home inspection does not and is not intended to point out every small problem or any invisible or latent defect in a home. Most minor or cosmetic flaws, for example, should be apparent to the buyer without the aid of a professional.

What To Expect

A home inspector is typically hired by you, the potential homebuyer, after the initial offer to purchase contract is signed. The cost of a home inspection varies depending on the size of the home or building. Usually, you have between 7-14 days from this time to get a professional home inspection completed prior to executing the final purchase and sales agreement. You should speak to your representative buyers agent about language in the contract making the purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

During the Home Inspection

While it is not always necessary and in today’s crazy world sometimes difficult, I highly recommend that you be present for the inspection. This allows you to observe the inspector, ask questions directly, and obtain a better understanding of the condition of the home, how its systems work and how to maintain it. The written report may be easier to understand if the buyer was present during the inspection.

It is VITAL that your agent provide safe access and sufficient lighting so that the inspector can inspect as much of the property as possible.

Inspectors must provide a written evaluation report based on the national, organizational & state specific standards of compliance in accordance with state, local and national organization standards of practice.

At the conclusion of the home inspection, the buyer should be well informed of the condition of the home. It should be known if there are visible, apparent problems, if repairs need are required, or whether or not there are any risks of concealed damage, and whether further investigation is recommended and/or required.