Why should you get a home inspection?
A home inspection summerizes the condition of a home and points out the areas that need attention or need major repairs.
Let's say you decided to sell your home or purchase a new or existing home what knowledge would you have that that house doesn't
have any problems at all until you purchase or sell. Inspections are good tools to help you make intellegent decisions in
the process of Selling or Purchasing a new or existing home.
(see page
on sellers/buyers)
What are the most common defects found in inspections?
- Poor drainage- Water drainge around the home is the most common defect found by inspectors due to grading not
channeling water away from home, downspouts and gutters not properly maintained of debris.
- Roof leaks- Recognizable by ceiling stains may be from older or damaged shingles or age of roof.
- Faulty wiring- Electrical system may be outdated most common in older homes, more hazardous could be
wiring itself not having proper ampage.
- Poor maintenance- No added value to the home. cracks-peeling paint from walls,
light fixures, doors not properly set etc.
- Heating/Cooling- Poor maintenance to system can cause not only health issues but can be very expensive
to replace. Also saftey concerns when it comes to fuel burning systems.
- Plumbing- Plumbing is a big issue, water draining slow or not enough pressure. Most problems is the type
of materials that are not compatable. Faulty fixtures at sink or tub. Try replacing fixures or plumbing system.
- Windows and Doors- Make sure windows and doors are sealed properly so they're not letting air or
moisture in. This can create potential problems such as mildew or mold.
- Inadequate Ventilation- Too much moisture is caused by poor ventilation in a home which can cause all
sorts of problems and damage can be costly depending on structure. This can also lead to certain illnesses for those that
may have allergies.
- Enviromental Hazards- If you have enviromental hazards you should have a professional determine problems.
Most enviromental problems come from older homes that may have lead-based paint, asbestos, formaldehyde and contaminated
drinking water.
Can a house fail an Inspection?
No. A home inspectioin is like going the Doctor and getting an examination of the current conditions of the subject. Again
it's not an appraisal, which does a type of inspection to determine value, neither is it like the municipal inspection which
makes certain the codes and standards are in compliance. A home inspection checks the physical condition and indicates what
may need repair or replacement.
Do I have to be there?
It is not necessary for you to be there but we recommend that you make time to join the inspector. This may allow you to
have questions answered as you observe and learn about the condition of the home. Also the written report will be easier to
understand because you would have gained knowledge on things you may not have known.
What if the house is new?
Some might think just because the home is new and/or in good condition there are no problems. False, even
if the house appears to be in good condition or new there can be mistakes made not to say you shouldn't purchase the home.
Let's say there were no problems found, not only would you have gained knowledge of your home but valuable informatioin for
future reference.
What if my bank is having the house appraised?
Remember an appraisal is not the same as an inspection. Appraisals is independant evaluation and is designed to set the
current value of the house and that in turn determines the loan they can offer.
How long can expect an answer from the time of inspection?
Most inspection reports can be done within a couple days depending on information gathered or certain conditions in findings.
Most of the time these conditions are explained to the home owner you can always call for further information. (904) 229-6572
