The Home Inspection Process

When do I need to call a home inspector?

Typically most home inspectors are called right after the signing of the contract to purchase your home. This contract should include a clause making it contingent upon having a professional home inspection. Both buyer and seller should agree upon the terms of this clause.

Do I have to be there?

It is recommended that you be present at the inspection but you do not have to do so. If you are present you can gain some valuable insights into the condition of the home and it’s systems along with additional information about maintenance and any other needed repairs. This will also make the written report you receive more understandable and valuable to you.

What if some problems are revealed in the report?

No house is perfect. Just as if you were buying a used car, a used house is also likely to have a few problems. Even newly constructed homes may have imperfections. If the report shows problems it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should not buy the house. Having the report will give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

If the report shows that the house is in good condition, did I really need the inspection in the first place?

A report showing no problems is exactly what you do want. With that information you can proceed with the purchase knowing that you have made a good, informed decision and additionally knowing many more things about your new home and its systems. The written report is a document that you will want to keep in your files for future reference.

Why can’t I do it myself or have Uncle Charlie do it?

If you or Uncle Charlie are licensed professional home inspectors that’s fine “ have at it. If not, you need to have a professional, unbiased and thorough inspection made my by a licensed home inspector.

Even if you have owned a number of homes you still do not have the same experience, expertise and equipment as a professional inspector who might have inspected hundreds or even thousands of homes. Buying a home is an emotional decision, inspecting it should not be. Many times a buyer is too emotionally involved to have an unbiased opinion as to the real condition of the home.

Can a house fail inspection?

No-there is no pass/fail or any sort of grade when inspecting a home. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your home. It is not an appraisal which sets a market value, or an inspection for code compliance. It is a description of the physical condition of the home and it’s systems at the time of the inspection, indicating where necessary, any needed repairs.