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Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment
you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you
can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs
or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more
about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive
measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that
will put the house in better selling condition.
What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will
cover 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 structural components
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Why can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and
expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation,
maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together,
as well as why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about
the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain
an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.
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 on a number of factors
such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, environmental or geological inspections.
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 sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced
inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance
with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.
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Can a house fail a home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination
of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not 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 components and systems may need major repair or replacement.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies
problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect.
If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important
to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
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