What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of a home and its sub-systems. It is designed to identify material defects and safety issues.
What does a home inspection cost?
Our inspection fees are based on the conditioned square footage of the home and range from $249 to $449 for homes 800 to 4000 sq. ft. These Flat Rate fees include pools, crawlspaces, irrigation systems, and thermal imaging at No Additional Cost.
Do I have to be there during the inspection?
While it’s not required that you be present for your inspection, it is highly recommended so that you can ask questions and learn about the condition of the home. If you can’t be present, a representative over the age of 18 must grant the home inspector access.
How long does a home inspection take?
Inspection times vary based on the size, age, and occupancy status of the home. We recommend that you set aside 3-4 hours.
Why can’t I do it myself?
Most homeowners lack the knowledge and expertise to properly evaluate a home and its many interconnected systems and components. Setting that aside, it would not be economically feasible to purchase the necessary diagnostic tools and equipment to perform a single home inspection. More importantly, buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain the opinion of a professional home inspector.
Can my house fail inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not 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 components and systems may need major repair or replacement.
When should I call a home inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted shortly after the seller has accepted your offer. We recommend making your offer contingent upon your receipt of a favorable home inspection report.
Why do I need a home inspection?
Your home purchase will likely be the largest investment you will make in your lifetime. To minimize the possibility of unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about your house before you close. A home inspection may identify safety concerns, a need for major repairs, or maintenance issues necessary to keep your home in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make informed decisions.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can identify issues that may concern potential buyers, and will allow you to make repairs prior to listing the property.
What role does technology play in home inspection?
Gone are the days when a home inspector would arrive at your door armed only with a ladder and flashlight. Today’s professional home inspector employs many technologies that save time and provide you with a more detailed report on the condition of your home. Infrared & laser thermography, moisture detection, and electronic pulse induction are now the standard when evaluating components of a home that are concealed behind walls or embedded in concrete. Additionally, inspectors employ an array of digital, mechanical and electronic diagnostic tools to check for everything from water pressure to microwave radiation leaks.
Is the inspector likely to be pet friendly?
Yes, as long as your pet is home inspector friendly. Our office dog, Dexter, insists that we not discriminate on the basis of species.