Frequently Asked Questions on
Home Inspections
Please select one of the following topics:
What is a home
inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination
of the physical structure and systems of a house,
from the roof to the foundation.
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What does a home
inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover
the condition of the home’s heating system; central
air conditioning system (temperature permitting);
interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof,
attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings,
floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement
and structural components.
The
American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
that outlines what you should expect to be covered
in your home inspection report.
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Why do I need a home
inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment
you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises
and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as
much as you can about the newly constructed or
existing house before you buy it. A home inspection
may identify the need for major repairs or builder
oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to
keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you
will know more about the house, which will allow you
to make decisions with confidence.
If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection
can identify problems in the making and suggest
preventive measures that might help you avoid costly
future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home
inspection can give you the opportunity to make
repairs that will put the house in better selling
condition.
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What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house
varies geographically, as does the cost of housing.
Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee
may vary depending on a number of factors such as
the size of the house, its age and possible optional
services such as septic, well or radon testing.
Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether
or not to have a home inspection or in the selection
of your home inspector. The sense of security and
knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth
the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not
necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s
qualifications, including experience, training,
compliance with your state’s regulations, if any,
and professional affiliations as a guide.
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Why can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the
knowledge and expertise of a professional home
inspector. An inspector is familiar with the
elements of home construction, proper installation,
maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the
home’s systems and components are intended to
function together, as well as why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it difficult to
remain completely objective and unemotional about
the house they really want, and this may have an
effect on their judgment. For accurate information,
it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party
opinion by a professional in the field of home
inspection.
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Can a house fail a home
inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination
of the current condition of a house. It is not an
appraisal, which determines market value. It is not
a municipal inspection, which verifies local code
compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not
pass or fail a house, but rather describe its
physical condition and indicate what components and
systems may need major repair or replacement.
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How do I find a home
inspector?
You can ask friends or business acquaintances to
recommend a home inspector they have used. Also,
real estate agents and brokers are familiar with the
service and may be able to provide you with a list
of names from which to choose.
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When do I call a home
inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately
after the contract or purchase agreement has been
signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an
inspection clause in the sales contract, making your
final purchase obligation contingent on the findings
of a professional home inspection. This clause
should specify the terms and conditions to which
both the buyer and seller are obligated.
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Do I have to be there?
While it’s not required that you be present for the
inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be
able to observe the inspector and ask questions as
you learn about the condition of the home and how to
maintain it.
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What if the report
reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies
problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t
buy the house, only that you will know in advance
what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you
don’t want to become involved in future repair work,
this information will be important to you. If major
problems are found, a seller may agree to make
repairs.
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If the house proves to be in
good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase
with confidence. You’ll have learned many things
about your new home from the inspector’s written
report, and will have that information for future
reference.
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