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Frequently Asked
Questions
A home inspection is an objective
visual examination of the physical structure and systems of the home, from the
roof to the foundation. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical
check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further
evaluation.
What does it include?
Why do I need a Home Inspection?
What will it cost me?
Can't I do it myself?
Can a house fail an inspection?
When do I call in the Home Inspector?
Do I have to be there?
What if the report reveals problems?
If the house proves to be in good
condition, did I really need an inspection?
What does it include?
The standard home inspectors report will review the
condition of the home’s....
• Main structure
• Primary parking structure
• Garage door and opener
• Exterior structural components
• Roof and attic
• Floors, walls, ceilings, widows and doors.
• Plumbing system
• Electrical system
• Heating system
• Air conditioning system
• Kitchen
• Basement/crawl space
• Roof
• Eavestrough and drainage
• Fireplace
• Porches, decks and balconies
• Site visual of property grade and drainage
Why do I need a home
inspection?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single
investment you will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about
the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy,
so that you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards. Of
course, a home inspection also points out the positive aspects of the home, as
well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After
the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you
are about to purchase. If you are already a home owner, a home inspection may be
used to identify problems in the making and to learn preventive measures which
might avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, you
may wish to have an inspection prior to placing your home on the market. This
will give you a better understanding of the conditions which may be discovered
by the buyer's inspector, and an opportunity to make the repairs that will put
the house in better selling condition.
What will it cost me?
There is no really any set standard fee for an inspection.
On average, most inspections will vary at about $8 per 100 square feet, with
additional fees for extra systems. It is all to often that the cost is the
deciding factor in the selection of an inspector. Service should be the key word
here. Some inspectors are committed to providing the best inspection possible.
These inspectors spend a lot of time and money towards continued education and
the many little things that make a big difference in the quality and
professionalism of their service. Do not let a small amount of money stand in
the way of a quality inspection of such a large investment.
Can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced home owners lack the knowledge
and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds of
homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with many elements of home
construction, their installation, and maintenance. He or she understands hoe the
home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as to
how and why they fail. Above all, most home buyers find it very difficult to
remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want,
and this may affect their judgment.
Can a house fail an
inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is a examination of the
current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which
determines market value, or 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 may need repair or
replacement.
When do I call in the
Home Inspector?
A home inspector is typically contacted right after the
contact purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few
days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in
the contract, make in your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a
professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both
the buyer and seller are obligated.
Do I have to be there?
Many real estate agents recommend attending the inspection
is an opportunity to learn more information about the home you are considering
buying. At Pacific West Home Inspections we schedule and perform our inspections
in a way that it is simply not necessary to spend 4 hours following the
inspector around. We allow plenty of time for a one on one question and answer
secession at the time of presenting the report. We have found that 98% of the
time, any questions that our client may have had prior to the inspection are
answered when we go over the report. We also take pictures of problems that are
addressed in the report. If a problem is found in the attic or crawl space, the
pictures help our customers to understand the exact nature of the problem. For
those whose schedule will not allow for attendance of the entire process, we
have tailored our services accordingly.
What if the report
reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems,
it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know
in advance what to expert. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract
terms if major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish
to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely
important to you.
If the house
proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with
your eyes open as to the condition of the property and all its equipment and
systems. You will also have learned many things about your new home from the
inspector's written report, and will want to keep that information for future
reference.
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