A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive inspection of the readily accessible elements of the structural, exterior, roof, plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, ventilation, insulation, and interior systems of a home.
To learn as much as you can about a home’s systems, components, and their condition.
Before you buy, sell, or make major renovations to a home.
A home inspection helps you understand a home’s condition, while an appraisal is done to determine a home’s value.
A home inspector should be licensed to perform all the services they offer and be willing to provide references from clients or colleagues.
The cost of a home inspection can vary depending upon many factors such as size, age, or location. There are also ancillary services, such as radon tests, oil tank sweeps, septic system or sewer line inspections that might be recommended. The total cost could range from $600 to $1500 for a 2500sf home.
A 2500sf single-family home inspection should take about three hours.
A home inspector will introduce themselves and explain their work process to their client. They will then inspect the property according to their process. At the end of the inspection, they should present a verbal summary of the findings to the client and answer any questions the client may have. The inspector will then provide a written inspection report to the client – usually withing 24 hours.
As soon as possible to give you time to have additional professionals assess any problems found during the initial home inspection.
New construction should be inspected at least a week prior to closing but not before the builder has finished all work and made the property ready for inspection.
The buyer, the buyer’s agent, and the listing agent. The seller should not be present but should be available to answer practical questions.
The home inspector should not make any repairs to the property. They should also not turn on any valves, electrical disconnects, or light any appliances except by normal operating procedures.
The home inspector will provide their client with a report listing all findings. In a real estate transaction, if deficiencies, damage, or safety hazards are noted, the client should discuss how to proceed with their realtor and attorney. For maintenance or pre-listing inspections, homeowners should address issues with qualified professionals.
