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Frequently
Asked Questions on Home Inspections
Q. 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. The standard home inspector's report will
include an evaluation of 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.
Having a
home inspected is like giving it a physical checkup. If
problems or symptoms are found, the inspector will refer
you to the appropriate specialist or tradesperson for
further evaluation.
Q. 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 will also point 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, and will be able to make a
confident buying decision.
If you
have owned your home for a long time, a home inspection
can identify problems in the making and recommend
preventive measures which might avoid costly future
repairs. In addition, home sellers may opt for having an
inspection prior to placing the home on the market to gain
a better understanding of conditions which the buyer's
inspector may point out. This provides an opportunity to
make repairs that will put the house in better selling
condition.
Q. 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
upon the size of the house, particular features of the
house, its age, and possible additional services, such as
septic, well, or radon testing. It is a good idea to check
local prices on your own.
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.
Q. 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 all the 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. For the
most accurate picture, it is best to obtain an impartial
third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home
inspection.
Q. Can a
house fail 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 verities 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.
Q. How
do I find a home inspector?
The best
source is a friend, or perhaps a business acquaintance,
who has been satisfied with, and can recommend, a home
inspector they have used. In addition, the names of local
inspectors can be found in the Yellow Pages where many
advertise under "Building Inspection Service" or
"Home Inspection Service". Real estate agents
are also generally familiar with the service, and should
be able to provide you with a list of names from which to
choose.
Whatever
your referral source, be sure to ascertain the home
inspector's professional qualifications, experience, and
business ethics before you make your selection. You can do
this by checking with the local consumer affairs office or
Better Business Bureau, as well as by verifying the
inspector's membership in a reputable professional
association.
Since
there are no licensing requirements for home inspectors
[except in Texas], you will want to make certain that such
an association has a set of nationally recognized practice
standards and a code of ethics. This provides members with
professional inspection guidelines, and prohibits them
from engaging in any conflict of interest activities which
might compromise their objectivity, such as using the
inspection as a means to obtain home repair contracts.
The
association should also have rigorous membership and
continuing education requirements to assure consumers of
an inspector's experience and technical qualifications.
Q. When
do I call in the home inspector?
A home
inspector is typically called 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.
Q. Do I
have to be there?
It's not
necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it
is recommended. By following the home inspector around the
house, by observing and asking questions, you will learn a
great deal 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.
Q. What
if the report reveals problems?
No house
is perfect. If the inspector finds 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 be
flexible with the purchase price or contract terms if
major problems are found. If your budget is very tight, or
if you don't wish to become involved in future repair
work, this information will be extremely important to you.
Q. What
if I find problems after I move into my new home?
A home
inspection is not a guarantee that problems won't develop
after you move in. However if you believe that a problem
was already visible at the time of the inspection and
should have been mentioned in the report, your first step
should be to call and meet with the inspector to clarify
the situation. Misunderstandings are often resolved in
this manner.
If
necessary, you might wish to consult with a local
mediation service to help you settle your disagreement.
Though many home inspectors today carry Errors &
Omissions liability insurance, litigation should be
considered a last resort. It is difficult, expensive, and
by no means a sure method of recovery.
Q. If
the house proves to be in good condition, did I really
need an inspection?
Definitely.
Now you can complete your home purchase with peace of mind
about the condition of the property and all its equipment
and systems. You will also have learned a few things about
your new home from the inspector's report, and will want
to keep that information for future reference. Above all,
you can feel assured that you are making a well-informed
purchase decision, and that you will be able to enjoy your
new home the way you want to. |
