What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a visual inspection of the structure and components of a home to find items that are not performing correctly or items that are unsafe. If a problem or a symptom of a problem is found the home inspector will include a description of the problem in a written report and may recommend further evaluation.

Why is a home inspection important?

Home Buyers: Emotion often affects the buyer and makes it hard to imagine any problems with their new home. A buyer needs a home inspection to find out all the problems possible with the home before moving in.

Home Sellers: More and more sellers are choosing to have a thorough inspection before or when they first list their home. First and foremost, you should have a home inspection for full disclosure. You will have demonstrated that you did all you could do to reveal any defects within the home. Second, you will save money and hassle by knowing now what your defects are, not after you have already negotiated and are faced with costly repairs discovered on the buyers inspection. Defects found before the buyer comes along allow you to shop around for a contractor and not deal with inflated estimates that a buyer will present.
What if the report reveals problems?

If we find faults in a home it does not necessarily mean you shouldn't buy it, only that you will know in advance what type of repairs to anticipate and approximate costs All homes (even new construction) may have problems. Every problem has a solution. Solutions vary from a simple fix of the component to adjusting the purchase price but having a home inspection allows the problem to be addressed before the sale closes.

What does a home inspection include?

A home inspector's report will review the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure. Many inspectors will also offer additional services not included in a typical home inspection such as mold, radon and water testing.

What should I NOT expect from a home inspection?

· A home inspection is not protection against future failures. Stuff happens! Components like air conditioners and Heat Systems can and will break down. A home inspection tells you the condition of the component at the time the component was inspected. For protection from future failure you may want to consider a home warranty.
· A home inspection is not an appraisal that determines the value of a home. Nor will a home inspector tell you if you should buy this home or what to pay for this home.
· A home inspection is not a code inspection, which verifies local building code compliance. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house. Homes built before code revisions are not obligated to comply with the code for homes built today. Home inspectors will report findings when it comes to safety concerns that may be in the current code such as ungrounded outlets above sinks. A home inspector thinks "Safety" not "Code" when performing a home inspection.

Should I attend the home inspection?

Yes. In addition to your report, your inspector may also point out proper maintenance procedures and inform you of preventive measures to ensure efficient functions of your home. The home inspector will also inform you of helpful hints such as: how to shut of the gas, where to locate your main electricity disconnect, furnace and water shut-off in the case of an emergency. Also, the inspector can explain in person and answer any questions you may have. This is an excellent way to learn about your new home even if no problems are found. But be sure to give the home inspector time and space to concentrate and focus so he can do the best job possible for you.

Can a house "fail" an inspection?

No. A professional home inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your prospective home, but remember, it is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code Inspection. It is not a guarantee.
Because of that, a home inspector 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 for your knowledge and information.

If the report is good, did I really need an inspection?

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with peace of mind knowing about the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You may also have learned a few things about your new home from our report and will want to keep that information for future reference. Our report will serve as a maintenance manual for you. Above all, you can feel assured that you are making a well informed purchase decision.

Inspectors from Quality Home Inspections Inc. abide by the NACHI® Code of Ethics and will not reveal information contained in the report without your permission.