Below are some frequently asked questions about home inspection and the home inspection procedure. Click on the question to see a detailed answer. If your question isn't on the list, or you want a more detailed answer to a question that is there, give me a call at (603) 431-7544.
What does a home inspection include?
Why do I need a home inspection?
Do I need to be there for the inspection?
How long will the inspection take?
My house is being built for me new. Why should it be inspected?
How much will a home inspection cost?
Can't I do the inspection myself?
What if the report reveals some problems?
Can my house fail its 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 inspection is like giving it a complete physical. If problems or symptoms are found, I may recommend further evaluation. All of my home inspections conform with the National Association of Certified of Home Inspectors' Standards of Practice.
2. WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTION INCLUDE?
The standard home inspector's report will review the condition of the home's heating and cooling systems, interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows; the foundation, basement, visible structure, grading and drainage, and attached structures such as decks, sheds and garages.
3. WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?
Financially and emotionally, your new home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make. You will enjoy many years of happiness--if you have chosen wisely. At first glance, it may be in great shape. But there may be certain problems, some of which you can live with, but others that could be a financial burden. In making a decision of this magnitude, make it with confidence. Additionally, the home inspection will note positive aspects of the home, as well as maintenance required to keep your home in good shape. The inspection also helps you to get a much better understanding of the property than you could ever get on your own.
4. DO I NEED TO BE THERE FOR THE INSPECTION?
While it is not absolutely necessary for you to be at the inspection, I highly recommend that you attend the inspection to get its full benefits. The inspection gives you the chance to ask me questions directly and to see your home through my eyes as I go through the home. This will give you a better understanding of the inspection report as well as the overall property itself.
5. HOW LONG WILL THE INSPECTION TAKE?
The time required generally depends on the size of the home. For example, an average 2,000 square foot home will take between 2-3 hours to inspect. Another factor that may affect inspection time is the condition of the home. If the home has a lot of problems, additional time may be required for me to describe those problems and discuss what options the buyer may have to repair those problems.
6. MY HOUSE IS BEING BUILT NEW. WHY SHOULD IT BE INSPECTED?
An inspection of a new property is important to help you spot any shortcuts the contractor or builder may have taken. As a trained certified home inspector, I will be able to spot certain telltale signs that might otherwise go unnoticed to an untrained eye. Especially valuable is an inspection before the drywall is put up. This allows you the chance to identify and fix problems when they are much easier to spot and repair.
7. HOW MUCH WILL A HOME INSPECTION COST?
The cost of a home inspection varies based upon a number of factors, including size, age, special services requested, etc. Typically, the cost starts at $250 for a 2000 square foot home. Fees are slightly higher for larger homes. However, cost should not be a factor in deciding whether or not you get your home inspected or in determining which certified home inspector you choose. Rather, you should consider the home inspection as an investment that will pay for itself many times over.
8. CAN'T I DO THE INSPECTION MYSELF?
Even the most savvy do-it-yourselfer will not have the level of training, knowledge, equipment or expertise as a NACHI certified professional home inspector. I am familiar with the complex elements of home construction, understands how the home's systems are intended to function harmoniously, as well as how and why they may fail. Most importantly, I am a disinterested third party that can be totally objective about the condition of the home.
9. WHAT IF THE REPORT REVEALS SOME PROBLEMS?
No house is perfect. If there are problems, and there will be, it doesn't mean that you shouldn't buy the house. However, if there are major problems, you may want to go back to the seller to either get the problems corrected or to negotiate the contract price to reflect my findings.
10. CAN A HOUSE FAIL ITS INSPECTION?
No. A home inspection is not the same as a code inspection. While I am familiar with many of the local and national building codes, my objectives are to describe the physical condition of the house and indicate what may need repair or replacement.