Q & A.

A: An inspection is a reasonable effort to disclose the conditions on the day of an inspection – a look at your home with an experienced eye. Most people hire an inspector to check the roof, exterior foundation, & basement, structure, plumbing, electrical, heating & air conditioning, fire places, insulation, and interior inspections do not reveal information on the concealed areas or items not inspected. e.g. insulation in the visible areas of the attic does not imply insulation under the attic floor.

Q: Why do I need an inspection?
A: Home inspectors are generalists with broad knowledge on many topics. Some home inspectors are engineers and some are not. The home inspector does a visual inspection and reports any major deficiencies and items affecting the habitability of the property. A good inspector must be well versed in all fields of residential construction and have good communication skills. Home inspectors give an overview of the condition of any property and disclose major defects.

Q: Is an inspection an insurance policy or warranty against future repair?
A: No. Home inspectors will never be able to predict every repair or maintenance item encountered while owning a house. Purchasing a home brings risk. An inspection does not constitute an insurance policy. It gives you an overall impression of the condition of a house and discloses any immediate major repairs. A reputable inspection company will provide an independent limited warranty from a highly rated insurer with the inspection. (Make sure the warranty is not self-insured by the inspector/inspection company. This creates a conflict of interest if home repairs are needed.)

Q: Do I need to be present at my home inspection?
A: It isn’t necessary for you to be present during the inspection. However, being there will help you learn about your new home. An inspector can give you tips on maintenance and upkeep. It is also a good time for you to ask questions.

Q: Are there any limitations?
A: YES. Inspectors do the best job they can. But sometimes, physical obstructions, weather conditions, etc. prevent them from doing the whole job. e.g. a snow covered roof or concealed areas. An inspector cannot make representations about what was not inspected. Approximately ¾ of the components of a house are concealed out of line of site.

Q: Can a house fail an inspection?
A: Inspectors will not pass or fail a house. Professional home inspections are simply an examination of the current condition of any house. Inspectors describe the present condition and note items in need of repair or replacement.

Q: Which houses should be inspected?
A: Any house should be inspected regardless of age. New construction as well as existing houses may have defects. Inspectors use their older house inspection experience to anticipate future problems in new homes.

Q: What if the report reveals problems?
A: Just because the house may have some problems doesn’t mean it isn’t a good investment. A report will help you understand what may be involved in future maintenance. Getting repairs done before closing and whether you may be able to negotiate the price of the home with the seller. Remember the choice is always yours!

Q: How do I choose a home inspector?
A: There are many things to consider when choosing a home inspector such as organizational credentialing (NACHI, ASHI, IHINA, etc.), industry experience, integrity, impartiality, so look to your family, friends, and real estate agents and your mortgage broker or other trusted professionals. Do your homework! This is a big expensive purchase, settling on a cheap, easy inspection could be a big expensive mistake! Don’t just look at price, look at VALUE!