Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: HOW DO I KNOW WHICH INSPECTOR TO CHOOSE?
A: Be sure to choose a home inspector who is certified and insured with national home inspector organizations, one who has the proper training and accreditation. An inspector with solid reviews and a good reputation in your area is your best bet. Beware of inspectors who boast cheap fees. While a good inspector won't be overpriced, you still get what you pay for, so to speak. Q: CAN I FOLLOW ALONG AT THE INSPECTION? A: Any inspector who refuses that you be present during the inspection, is an inspector to stay away from. Purchasing real estate is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make, and being present at your home inspection is vital. It gives you the chance to ask specific questions about the condition of the home. Your home inspector can explain any defects found and the best route for repairs in a way that you understand. Inspectors can give estimates on when repairs need to be done and at what cost. |
Q: HOW MUCH DOES AN INSPECTION COST?
A: Various factors will affect home inspection fees. When comparing home inspection companies, you may not want to simply choose the least expensive one. A little research goes a long way. Choose an inspector with a quality of service, proper accreditation and one who promises customer satisfaction. In choosing a home to buy, you may not simply decide to go with the cheapest home on the block, there's many factors to consider. Choosing a home inspector should be the same. Many offer free consultations, so a first step would be to contact a potential home inspector and ask about their general price lists. Q: HOW LONG DOES AN INSPECTION TAKE? A: A typical home inspection takes between 2 and 4 hours depending on the square footage of the home. Some older homes can take longer. Many inspectors will inform the homeowner of the estimated time involved once the inspection is arranged. Q: DO YOU PROVIDE A WRITTEN REPORT? A: Any professional home inspector will have a physical report present, of which they will fill out during the home inspection. Once completed, home inspectors generally email or send a full copy to the potential homeowner for their personal records. |
Q: WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT?
A: Licensed and insured home inspectors evaluate all major systems of the house. These include the roof, exterior, structure, electrical, heating, cooling, plumbing, insulation and interior of the home. A home inspector's job is to identify any existing problems that might affect a buyer's decision to purchase. During a home inspection, it's about finding those things that are "not right" with any certain system in the house. Leaks, breaks, weak structures, failing equipment, all these types of things are what alert a home inspector. In finding any kind of damage or situations that could pose a problem and expensive repairs in the future are what a home inspector will inform you of. Home inspectors will help you make a more thorough, educated decision about the purchase of a home, and are also a wealth of information. During your home inspection, you can learn a great deal about your new home, and how its systems should function properly. Q: CAN WE CONTACT YOU WITH QUESTIONS AFTER THE INSPECTION? A: We are happy to answer any questions you may have before, during, or after a home inspection. Always feel free to contact us with any concerns you may have. |