What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual examination of the systems and physical structure of a property.
If you are buying a home, town home, rental units, a co-op / condominium or commercial property, you should have it properly inspected before the final purchase by an experienced and impartial professional home inspector.
If you are selling a property, an inspection can alert you to conditions that could affect your sale.
Why do I need an inspection?
The purchase of a home is the largest single investment most people ever make. You should know exactly what to expect, both indoors and out, in terms of repair, maintenance and costs. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. The home inspector interprets these and other clues, then presents his professional opinion as to the condition of the property, so you can avoid unpleasant surprises. Of course, a home inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the type of maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of what it is you are about to purchase, and you will be able to make your decision confidently. If you have owned your home for a period of time, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and recommend preventive measures which might avoid future repairs.
What does a home inspection include?
A complete home inspection includes a visual examination of the property from top to bottom. The inspector examines the heating & air conditioning systems, the interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, the foundation and visible structure.
Can’t I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands of homes in his career. An inspector is equally familiar with all the elements of home construction and with the proper installation, maintenance and interrelationship of those elements. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may lead to a poor assessment.
What will it cost?
Nationwide inspection fees vary depending upon the size of the house, particular features of the house, age, special structures, etc. However, cost should not be a factor in the decision whether or not to have a home inspection. You might save many times the cost of the inspection if significant problems revealed by the inspector. Consult your agent or Lawyer for guidance.
Can a house “fail” inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your prospective home. It is not in appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items will be in need of immediate or near future major repair or replacement.