Frequently asked questions
Why Do I Need A Home Inspection?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment
you will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the
condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before
you buy, so you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties
afterwards. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer
understanding of the property.
If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection may be
used to identify problems in the making and take preventative
measures which might avoid costly repairs in the future. If you are
planing to sell your home on the market, you may wish to have an
inspection performed prior to placing your home on the market. This
will give you a better understanding of the conditions which may be
discovered by the buyer's inspector and an opportunity to make
repairs that will put the house in a better selling position. Having
an inspection will help you comply with current disclosure laws
concerning the sale of your property.
Can I Do It Myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and years
of expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is
familiar with the elements of home construction and remains
completely objective and unemotional about the home.
Can A Home Inspection Fail?
NO! A professional home inspection is an examination of the
condition of the home on the day it is inspected; it is not an
appraisal, which determines market value or a municipal inspection,
which verifies local code compliance, but rather describes its
visible physical condition and indicates what may need major repairs
in the near future.
Do I Have To Be There?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but
it is highly recommended. You will be able to accompany the
inspector and ask questions directly as you learn about the
condition of the home, how its systems work and how to maintain it.
You will also find the written report easier to understand if you've
seen the property firsthand through the inspectors eyes.
Who Hires The Inspector?
The Client usually retains the inspector. The Inspector works for
you. The report cannot be given to anyone else without your written
consent.
How Much Does It Cost?
The purchase of a property will likely be the most expensive
investment people will make in their lives, it doesn't
make sense to shop for the least expensive inspector you can find.
What is the saying, "Pennywise and Pound Foolish". That is most
certainly true, in todays world, you get what you pay for. Don't be
fooled by individuals whose training consists of viewing a video
tape for 2 hours and then claim to be a "House Inspector" Check for
"Certifications" before hiring an inspector. No Home Inspection can
guarantee their won't be problems, even new homes are not perfect on
the day their new owners move in.
A Certified Home Inspector can point out existing or
potential problems that would require attention either by the seller
or buyer. You, the buyer,save yourself from problems you never
contemplated when buying the "Dream House" you wanted . You,
the seller, are complying with current disclosure laws concerning
the sale of your
property. |