Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Home Inspection.

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is an in-depth visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home. It is not an appraisal that tells you what the home is worth or a code compliance audit. If you are thinking of buying a home, condo, townhouse, duplex or farm you should have it properly inspected before final purchase by an experienced and impartial inspector.

Why do I need a home inspection?

Purchasing a home will probably be the single largest investment you will ever make. You should know exactly what to expect, inside and out, in terms of repairs and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Water marks on the ceiling, roof decking, or floor joists may indicate a chronic leakage problem or simply the result of a single incident. The home inspector interprets these and other clues, then presents a professional and impartial opinion as to the condition of the property before you buy, so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises after the sale. Of course, a good home inspection will also point out any positive aspects of a home, such as: a new roof, new siding, and professionally installed pool or spa, to name a few.

What does a home inspection cost?

The cost for a home inspection varies from company to company. It will depend upon the characteristics of the property. Generally, you should expect rates for a qualified licensed company/inspector to range from about $300-$700 depending on the size of the home. Not a bad price to pay considering you are about to make the single largest investment of your life. Use common since when hiring an inspector, if you are quoted $275 and all others are $350+ what are you going to receive and will this inspector be around next week?

Should I attend the inspection?

Many clients often attend the last half hour of the inspection, and some attend the entire inspection to ask questions, but you may prefer to leave the inspection to us and take advantage of our easy to read report emailed the same day with pictures. It’s up to you. A thorough home inspection will take 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size, condition, and characteristics of the home. Larger homes will require more time, as will older homes.

What if the report reveals problems?

No house is perfect. When the inspector identifies problems, it does not indicate you should not buy the house. Our findings serve to educate you in advance of the purchase about the condition of the property. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are discovered during an inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely valuable.

After the home inspection, which items should I ask the seller to repair?

It is appropriate to ask the seller to fix any immediate safety issues, such as a gas leak. As a home inspector we do not participate in the negotiation, this is where your real estate professional will assist you.

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

Yes. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence about the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. From the inspection, you will have learned many things about your new home, and will want to keep that information for future reference.