Frequently Asked Questions

It’s an inspection of the condition of a home and an examination of the home’s major structure, systems and components that are visible and safely accessible. A home inspection is done item by item, and includes every major component from the roof to the foundation. We look closely at things like plumbing, heating, air conditioning, sinks, tubs, and faucets, electrical panels, and any appliances which convey.

The general concept is that the home inspector is trained to spot problems that typical homebuyers are likely to miss. They are not usually intended to bring up the discussion about items the homebuyers can easily see for themselves like the color of the wall paint or what the carpets look like. Rather, the inspector examines components of the home according to  specific standards of practice, which includes things the homebuyer is likely to miss during an walkthrough of the home. 

The scope of the home inspection is covered by the standards of practice, which outlines (at a minimum) what should be covered during a general home inspection, as well as what is excluded. 

A home inspection will typically include an examination of the foundation and basement, roof, attic, heating and cooling systems, electrical and plumbing systems, as well as the general condition of the structure itself. An inspector will look for poor construction practices and make note of any repairs that might be required or any general maintenance issues. Importantly, they will also make note of any fire and safety issues that need to be addressed.

Industry associations, such as InterNACHI, and state laws define the scope of a home inspection. Rest assured, our home inspections exceed both state’s requirements and InterNACHI’s Standards of Practice, which you can view here. 

Buying a home is typically the biggest investment you will ever make. When making such a large investment, it is important, not only to protect your investment, but also your family. Your home inspector should be able to discover and document defects that pose a risk to the structure or your wellbeing, including one that may not be obvious to you as a prospective buyer.

Defects identified can range from issues that require simple replacements or repairs, to severe structural damage or installation problems, posing safety and health concerns. It’s worth noting, that many mortgage companies require a home inspection on a property before approving the home loan. 

Although it is not required for the client to be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. This is a great chance to learn more about the home and ask questions about the condition of the home and how to maintain it. You can learn a lot by following an inspector through the home. You will certainly gain a better understanding of the home’s condition, which will give you insight into its features, operation, and any defects. 

All inspections are not equal. The price of a home inspection, depends upon the experience of the inspector, size of the home, and scope of the inspection. Price, however, should not be your main concern. The vast majority of home inspectors price their jobs within a hundred dollars or so of the competition, which is why other factors are far more important. 

Before hiring an inspector, you should learn more about his or her experience and qualifications, find out what will be included in the inspection, and look over the details outlined in the inspection agreement that you will need to sign prior to the inspection.

Typical inspections last between 3 – 4 hours depending on the age, condition, and size of the home. Larger homes, older homes, or homes with multiple issues always take longer than smaller, newer, well maintained properties.

As part of a real estate transaction, a home inspection is usually scheduled after an offer has been made and accepted, but before the closing date. This allows the inspector an opportunity to rule out any major defects that could be dangerous or costly, before you buy the home. 

Homeowners may wish to consider regular annual home inspections. This can help them become aware of any problems they may have missed that arose during the year, inform them of required maintenance, and ensure their home continues to be a safe place for the family.

No, this would pose a serious conflict of interest. Unlike a contractor that benefits financially by suggesting repairs or alterations, a home inspector has nothing to gain by reporting a defect and nothing to lose by suggesting the system or component is in fair condition. Thus, a home inspector is able to provide an truly unbiased opinion on the condition of the home. 

If your home inspection reveals any problems, it is important to understand the severity of the defect. Something like a missing shingle can be easily fixed at a low cost, just as a dirty air filter can be replaced for very little. However, if the defect is more extreme, such as a major foundation crack, wood-destroying organism infestation, or evidence of mold, you will determine what it will take to address the issue and whether you can negotiate their cost with the seller. 

In many cases, a home inspection is well worth it for the home buyer. The issues identified in the report can be used to negotiate a lower price for the home. Often, the repair can be negotiated with the seller, saving the buyer from incurring repair costs after purchase. For the home seller, a home inspection can identify areas in need of correction, so that you can address them prior to going to market. In this way a home seller is able to make the repairs before they are discovered by a buyer. This can mean less time negotiating and more money for your home.

Both home inspections and appraisal are part of the process, but they are, in fact, two different things. An appraisal is a concept of pricing a home based on specific factors, such as the home’s location, size,  and overall condition The appraisers job is primarily to protect the lender from loaning out more than the home is worth. `A home inspector, on the other hand, examines every aspect of the home, looking for issues that could negatively affect the buyer’s investment.

While an appraisal may note the condition of home components, an inspection is a much more thorough.  Whereas an appraisal is required in order to get a mortgage, an inspection is not mandatory but it’s still a good idea to get one. A home inspector examines every aspect of the home, looking for issues that could negatively affect the buyer’s investment. While the appraiser is obligated to protect the lender, the home inspector is most often there to protect the buyer from making a poor purchase.