Dedicated Home Inspection
303-489-3719
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a home inspection ?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.
Why do I need an inspection?
Buying a home is an exciting time. Emotions and excitement get in the way of making decisions. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you want to learn as much about a property before you buy. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as small maintenance issues. After an inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
Why is important that I chose an inspector that belongs to ASHI?
AHSI is an organization of independent, professional home inspectors who are required to make a commitment, from the day they join as Candidates, to conduct inspections in accordance with the ASHI Standards of practice and code of Ethics, which prohibits engaging in conflict-of-interest activities that might compromise their objectivity. Mandatory continuing education helps the membership stay current with the latest in technology, materials and professional skills.
What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector's report will cover 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 structural components.
What does an inspection cost?
Cost of an inspection varies depending on size, location, amenities and age of home. Do not let cost be a deciding factor in selecting your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge you will receive from your inspection is well worth the cost. The lowest priced inspector is not always a bargain. Hire an inspector because of his training, services, knowledge, and affiliation with associations.
Why can't I do it myself?
An inspection is usually scheduled after an offer on a house has been accepted. Home buyers at this point are excited about their purchase and usually cannot remain unemotional during an inspection. A professional home inspection gives the buyer an unbiased - unemotional visual inspection of the home and its systems. An inspector has knowledge of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety.
Can a house fail an 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 inspection, 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 do I call an inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, make sure there is a clause indicated that the purchase is contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection.
Do I need to attend the inspection?
You are not required to be present at the inspection, although it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions. The information you receive is invaluable in learning about the condition of your home and how to maintain it.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect, not even a newly constructed home. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't mean you should or shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
If I am moving into a newly constructed home, why do I need an inspection?
Even the best of builders hire contractors to do specific areas of construction. These contractors are not always supervised and errors can be made and not caught. Buyers will complete a visible inspection of the house, during the "final walkthrough". Buyers are so anxious to get into their new home, many problems are frequently missed. A professional home inspector will give you an unemotional and objective view of your home. If problems are found before the contract is signed, the builder is more likely to fix the problems. If the house comes with a one year warranty, another inspection at 11 months is highly recommended. After a year of use, problems may be revealed. Being armed with a professional home inspection report, the builder is much more likely to agree to fix the defects.
Is there anything, as the seller, I can do to help the inspection go smoothly?
- Confirm that water, electricity and gas service are on, with gas pilot lights burning.
- Secure pets so they won't hinder the inspection.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace dead batteries.
- Replace burned out bulbs to avoid "light is inoperable" report that may suggest an electrical problem.
- Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters.
- Removed stored items, debris and wood from foundation. They may be cited as "conducive conditions" for termites.
- Remove items blocking access to HVAC equipment, electric service panels, closets, fence gates, and crawl spaces.
- Unlock areas the inspector must access - attic doors or hatches, electric service panels, closets and fence gates.
- Trim limbs to 10 feet from the roof and shrubs from the house to allow access.
- Attend to broken or missing items like doorknobs, locks and latches, windowpanes, screens, window locks, gutters, downspouts and chimney caps.
- Disclose any information regarding defects in the house. They usually will surface during the inspection, and may suggest the seller is not fully disclosing item as required by law.
Top 10 Issues with a Home:
- Improper Electrical Wiring
This can include such situations as insufficient electrical service, inadequate overload protection, and amateur, often dangerous, wiring connections.
- Roof Damage
Old, damaged or missing shingles, or improper flashing causing leaks and water damage.
- Heating System
This may include items such as broken or malfunctioning operating controls, blocked chimneys, and unsafe exhaust disposal.
- Poor Overall Maintenance
Home buyers will notice signs as in cracked, peeling or dirty painted surfaces, crumbling masonry, makeshift wiring or plumbing, broken fixtures or appliances.
- Structural Issues
Houses may sustain damage to such structural components as foundation walls, floor joists, rafters, and window and door headers.
- Plumbing
Defaults may include the existence of old or incompatible piping materials, as well as faulty fixtures and waste lines.
- Exteriors
Flaws in the home's exterior, including windows, doors, and wall surfaces, are responsible for the condition of water and air penetration, but rarely have structural significance. Inadequate caulking or weather stripping are the most common culprits.
- Poor Ventilation
Perhaps due to overly ambitious efforts to save energy, many home owners have "over sealed" their homes, resulting in excessive interior moisture. This can cause rotting and premature failure of both structural and non-structural elements.
- Improper Surface Grading and Drainage
Common for the most house maladies, such as water penetration of the basement or crawl spaces.
- Miscellaneous
Includes primarily interior components, often cosmetic in nature which typically do not qualify to be reported during the home inspection..
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