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Frequently
Asked Questions |
What
Is A "Home Inspection" ?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical
structure and systems
of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Having a home inspected is
like giving it a physical
check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend
further
evaluation.
What Does It Include ?
The standard home inspector's report will review 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 visible structure.
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 that you can minimize unpleasant
surprises and difficulties
afterwards.
Of course, a home inspection also points out the positive aspects of a
home, as well as the
maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the
inspection, you will
have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to
purchase.
If you are already a home owner, a home inspection may be used to identify
problems in the
making and to learn preventive measures which might avoid costly future
repairs. If you are
planning to sell your home, you may wish to have an inspection prior to
placing your home on
the market. This will give you a better understanding of conditions which
may be discovered
by the buyer's inspector, and an opportunity to make repairs that will put
the house in better
selling condition.
What Will It Cost ?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies, as does the cost
of
housing. The inspection fee may vary depending upon the size of the
house, particular features of the house, its age, and possible additional
services, such as swimming pool or spa testing. Generally the fee
for an average 2000 square foot home runs about $200 to $300.
However, 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 knowledge gained from an
inspection is well
worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a
bargain. The inspector's
qualifications, including his experience, training, and professional
affiliations, should be the
most important consideration.
You
will find our fees competitive and reasonable. With such a small fee
to pay compared to the large investment you are making, an inspection is a
very worthwhile expense. You should not choose a home inspection
firm by price alone. All inspectors are not alike and you usually
"get what you pay for". If you're determined to get the
lowest priced home inspection firm in town, let us know up front and we'll
be happy to refer you to them.
For
your convenience, we accept cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard and Discover.
If you want
to pay by credit card, please let us know so we can
send you an invoice by email. Otherwise, payment is due at the
completion of the inspection.
Can't I Do It Myself ?
Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of
a professional
home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes in
his or her
career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home
construction, their proper
installation, and maintenance. He or she understands how the home's
systems and
components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they
fail.
Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely
objective and unemotional
about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment.
Often, buyers are excited about a home's location, neighborhood or school
districts and an objective, unbiased home inspection is needed to identify
potential red flags and tell-tale clues about a home's condition.
Can A House Fail An Inspection ?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current
condition of your
prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value,
or 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
may need repair or
replacement.
When Do I Call In The Home Inspector ?
A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or
purchase agreement has
been signed, and is often available within a few days. However, before you
sign, be sure that
there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your 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.
Do I Have To Be There ?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is
recommended. You will
be able to observe 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 first-hand through
the inspector's eyes.
If
you cannot (or do not want to) attend the inspection, we require that you
sign our inspection agreement and provide the inspection fee before the
inspection is conducted.
What If The Report Reveals Problems ?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't
necessarily mean you
shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to
expect. A seller may
adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found.
If your budget is
tight, or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this
information will be
extremely important to you.
For
your reference, A to Z Home Inspections provides a list of local repair
persons, contractors and home service providers that are known to us
personally or otherwise and have a good reputation. Of course, you
should choose someone you feel comfortable with after meeting them and
discussing work schedules, materials, insurance, etc.
Download
the Home Service Providers here.
If The House Proves To Be In Good Condition, Did
I Really Need An Inspection ?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with your eyes open as
to the
condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also
have learned many
things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will
want to keep that
information for future reference.
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