What Is an Inspection?
A home inspection takes place after you've made an offer on a home that the seller has accepted. A professional will examine the home to ensure it meets specific codes and laws as set by the city, county, and state. Put simply, the purpose of a home inspection is to make certain that the home you're about to buy doesn't have any major defects of problems that will cost you money down the road.
What Are They Looking for?
A home inspection usually includes an examination of a home's major systems, such as heating and air conditioning units, plumbing, and electrical systems. It might also include looking at the roof, attic, insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, foundation, and basement or crawl space.
Once the inspection is over, the inspector will prepare a report detailing what he or she found. If any major repairs are needed, you will work with your Realtor® to determine how to proceed.
Finding a Good Inspector
Your Realtor® is likely to know someone who they've worked with in the past that they'd recommend. However, if you'd rather find an inspector on your own, you can start with home inspection organizations such as the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors.
Once you have narrowed the field of inspectors, ask to see their records of experience as well as referrals from past clients. Also, make sure they are experienced in residential inspections. You can ask them for an estimate, too.
When you've found the right inspector, schedule a time for the inspection, and be present as it's going on. You'll learn more about the home you are buying and can ask the inspector questions. The inspector might also point out things he or she wouldn't mention in the report but that you should be aware of nonetheless. Any inspector that doesn't want you around during the inspection should raise a red flag.
Let Me Help
As your Realtor®, finding a home inspector is just one of the services I offer to you. If you'd like help finding an inspector, I'd be more than happy to put you in touch with one or two with whom I've worked in the past.
You can also visit http://www.ashi.org/ or http://www.nahi.org/ to view inspectors who are certified through the American Society of Home Inspectors or National Association of Home Inspectors.
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