Home Inspection Checklist for Buyers and Sellers
Should I Get a Home Inspection?
Purchasing a home is likely one of the biggest investments a person will make. A buyer will want to learn as much as possible about the home they’re considering. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or construction oversights which can minimize surprises and save on costly repairs. A home inspection can also identify the need for maintenance so you can keep your home in top shape. Knowing more about the home will allow you to make important decisions with confidence.
Home inspections can also be beneficial if you’re planning on selling your home. Having a seller’s home inspection performed can eliminate stress and allow you to get ahead of any issues that may need to be resolved. Pricing the home accurately will also be much easier.
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is intended to provide the client with information regarding the overall condition of installed systems and components of the home. The inspection is based on observation of the visible and apparent condition of the structure and components at the time of the home inspection. A home inspection is not a prediction of future conditions.
What is Included in a Home Inspection?
Our home inspections are in compliance with InterNACHI’s comprehensive Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. InterNACHI is the world’s largest organization of residential and commercial property inspectors. Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough, visual examination of all safely-accessible systems and components of the home including, but not limited to:
- Roof
- HVAC Systems
- Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
- Plumbing System
- Foundation
- Electrical System
- Patios, Balconies & Decks
- Exterior (doors, windows, sidings, soffits, fascias)
- Stairs, Steps, Railings & Handrails
- Driveways & Walkways
- Interior (doors, floors, walls, ceilings, stairs)
- Structural Components
- Fireplace & Chimney
- Vegetation & Surface Drainage
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
The cost of a home inspection varies geographically, and will typically vary based on a number of factors such as the size of the home, age of the home, scope of the inspection to be performed, and more. The knowledge and peace of mind gained from a home inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a good bargain. We offer free, no obligation home inspection quotes.
Who Should Pay for the Home Inspection?
Typically the buyer of the home will pay for the inspection. Sometimes the seller may choose to have a pre-listing inspection performed to find out if there are any issues that need repair before putting the home on the market. The seller typically pays for a pre-listing home inspection.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
The time it takes to perform a home inspection depends on the age, size of the home, the home’s location and the inspector’s work protocol and ethics. That being said, most inspections can take up to three hours on-site for an average-size home. Additional time is usually required to complete the home inspection report. Adding ancillary services (such as a pool inspection or additional buildings) can increase the inspection time.
Do I Need to Attend the Home Inspection?
We always encourage our clients to attend the home inspection. You will gain a better understanding of the home’s condition, which can allow you to make more informed decisions regarding the purchase of the home. However, if you can not make it to the inspection, our home inspection reports are detailed and will include all of our findings. Additionally, you can always contact us with any questions you may have.
What Happens if the Home Inspection Reveals Problems?
No house is perfect. If your home inspection reveals problems, it is important to understand the severity of those problems. We use color coding in our home inspection reports to identify different levels of severity. For example, a dirty HVAC filter can easily be replaced at a low cost. If the problem is more severe, such as an ongoing roof leak, you should find out whether you can negotiate the cost of repair with the seller, or if you have enough in your budget to pay for the repair yourself.
Can a House Fail a Home Inspection?
Simply put, no. A home inspection is a visual examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, and it is not a code-compliance inspection. Home inspectors do not pass or fail a home, but instead report on the home’s overall condition and point out any systems or components that may need repair or replacement.
How do I schedule my Home Inspection?
That’s easy! Click the button below to schedule your home inspection in just a few simple steps. Call or email us with any questions you may have.
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