Frequently
Asked Questions
When do I request an inspection?
What does an inspection include?
What does an inspection not include?
Can a building fail the inspection?
What if the report reveals problems?
If the report is favorable did I really need an inspection?
Can
I inspect the
building myself?
What will the inspection cost?
Should
I attend the inspection?
An inspection is
an examination of the visible elements of the structure and systems of
a building. Whether the property you are anticipating buying is a site
built home, manufactured home, or commercial building, you should
have it thoroughly inspected before the final purchase by an
experienced and
impartial State Licensed Inspector.
The purchase of a
home or
commercial building is one of the largest single investments you will
ever
make. You should know exactly what to expect both indoors and
out, in
terms of needed repairs, possible trouble spots and maintenance.
A fresh coat of
paint could
be hiding serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may
indicate a
chronic roof leakage problem or may be simply the result of a single
incident.
The inspector interprets these and other clues, then presents a
professional
opinion as to the condition of the property so you can avoid unpleasant
surprises afterward. Of course, an inspection will also point out the
positive
aspects of a building, as well as the type of maintenance needed 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 be able to make your
decision
confidently.
If you are the seller of
a property you may wish to obtain an inspection report before placing
your home on the market. Knowing what is wrong with a house and
making repairs before placing it on the market can result in a higher
sales price and shorter marketing time by eliminating surprises found
after the offer has been made.
The best time to
consult
the inspector is right after you have made an offer on your new
building. The
real estate contract usually allows for a grace period to inspect the
building.
Ask your professional real estate agent to include this inspection
clause in the
contract, making
your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional
inspection. It is much better to have spent a small amount of
money on a professional inspection that to spend thousands of dollars
down the road when problems become apparent.
What Does An Inspection Include?
What
Does An Inspection NOT Include?
Inspection
reports on pre-owned properties do not include 'cosmetic
imperfections'. A pre-owned property is expected to exhibit
normal wear and tear. The carpets may be stained, there may
be small nail holes in the walls from pictures, curtain rods etc and
interior wall paint may show dirt or chips. These type things are
expected in a pre-owned property and do not affect the integrity of the
structure, nor are they hazardous or a safety violation. A
professional inspector is trained to recognize the difference between
normal wear and tear and those things which could indicate a potential
problem.
Lets
use carpet stains as an example. To a layman, a dirty carpet
appears to be just that but to a professional inspector it matters
where the stains are. Stains along the exterior walls could
indicate a drainage problem outside the house. Run-off
water could be penetrating into the house from the exterior. Is
the carpet stained in front of the furnace or water heater
closet? This could indicate a past or present leak from these
systems and further investigation may be required. Are there
stains in the rooms adjacent to a bathroom or utility room? This
could indicate a potential plumbing problem.
The
condition of the interior paint is another consideration. Most
homes that have been pre-owned have a variety of imperfections on
the painted surfaces. Again it matters to the professional
inspector where the imperfections are and how they look. It may
not just be dirt. Water stains can appear just about anywhere and
are indicative of a problem that requires further investigation.
Dirty ceiling paint may indicate that the heating and air conditioning
duct work, or the units themselves are in need of attention.
These are the type of things and inspector is trained to recognize and
report on.
Can a Building “FAIL” The Inspection?
No. A
professional
inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your
prospective real estate purchase. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal
Code Inspection. An inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail
a building,
but will
simply describe its condition and indicate which items are in need
of minor
or major repairs or replacement.
What If The Report Reveals Problems?
If the inspector finds problems in a building, it does not necessarily mean you should not buy it. But it will tell you in advance what type of repairs to anticipate having done. A seller may be willing to make repairs because of significant problems discovered by the inspector. If your budget is tight, or if you do not wish to become involved in future repair work, you may decide that this is not the property for you. The choice is yours and with a professional home inspection you can now make a more informed choice.
If The Report Is Favorable, Did I Really Need An Inspection?
Definitely! Now you can complete your purchase with peace of mind about the condition of the property and its equipment and systems. You may have learned a few things about your property from the inspection report, and will want to keep that information for your future reference. Above all, you can rest assured that you are making a well informed purchase decision and that you will be able to enjoy or occupy your new home or building the way you want.
Can I Inspect The Building Myself?
Even the most
experienced
building or home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a
professional
inspector who has inspected hundreds and perhaps thousands of homes
and
buildings in their career. An inspector is equally familiar with the
critical
elements of construction and with the proper installation, maintenance
and
inter-relationships of these elements. Above all, most buyers find it
difficult
to remain completely objective and unemotional about the building they
really
want, and this may lead to a poor assessment.
What Will The Inspection Cost?
The inspection
fee for a
typical single family house or commercial building varies
geographically, as
does the cost of housing, similarly, within a geographic area.
The
inspection
fees charged by different inspection companies may vary depending upon
the size
of the building, particular features of the building, age, type of
structure,
etc. However, the cost should not be a factor in the decision whether
or not to
have a physical inspection. You might save many times the cost of the
inspection if you are able to have the seller perform repairs based on
significant problems revealed by the inspector. Consult your
professional real estate agent
for guidance. Our
price list may be found here.
Should I Attend The Inspection?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is a good idea. While most inspectors strive to use layman's terms in describing potential problems often the most informed consumer is confused by the report or overly concerned by items they do not fully understand. By following the inspector through the inspection, observing and asking questions, you will learn about your prospective purchase and get some tips on general maintenance. Information that will be of great help to you after you've moved in.
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