Most major construction flaws go unnoticed for 3 to 5 years. In this time period these flaws could cost thousands of dollars to repair. And guess what? The builder is no longer responsible. At Jacob Mermin Inspections we have been doing a lot of inspections just prior to the one year home warranty expires. In all this time I have discovered one thing, after all the time people spend with their builder they have become good friends. My advice to all those people. What's more important, your families safety and your investment, or your friendship with your builder. I also bring up that most builders do not remind their home buyers that their one year warranty is about to expire. Trust me he doesn't love you that much. He can't wait for that year to expire so he isn't liable anymore for any builder defects or mistakes. Don't get me wrong, there are many more good builders than bad. Most of the Warranty Inspections were handled very well by the builder. Many more than not took care of problems quickly and professionally. My point is that it is your responsibility to have an inspections done before it expires and don't count on anyone else. While many items are hidden from view it is not too late for defects in workmanship to be caught by the trained eye of the experienced inspector. A proper inspection will include: Your mechanical systems: Heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical. These will include: Hvac, all plumbing fixtures, including hot water heater, and pipes, main electrical panel, breakers, switches, outlets, including ground fault indicators,(gfi). Your roof system: Rafters, roof covering, and vents. soffit and facia. Home structure: Including foundation, type of building materials for walls etc. and insulation. Your garage including: The garage door, garage door opener and driveway. Appliances: Including all the appliances that came with the home, usually stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, built in microwave, garbage disposal etc. Windows, door, and floor coverings. All visible defects will be noted in a written report. As many pictures will be taken and included as needed to give the client a accurate picture of the condition of their home before the warranty expires. Make sure you bring any concerns to the inspector so he can give them special treatment if needed. With Jacob Mermin Inspecitions you get the regular home inspection plus a air conditioning inspection. A indoor air quality inspection and mold inspection is also included. If there is a mold issue, the moisture source needs to be found and testing maybe needed. This last opportunity inspection is essential in providing you with piece of mind you deserve. This is a warranty provided to you from your builder. If you feel there is a problem with your home this is your last chance to protect your investment and insure your family's safety. Do not feel bad for your builder even if you have become friends. Remember he didn't call to remind you that your one year warranty was about to expire. Jacob Mermin is a InterNachi certified home inspector, Micro certified mold inspector, Aire certified air quality specialist and a Epa certified Hvac technician. Visit Jacob Mermin at the Inspectors Corner. Jacob Mermin CHI/CMI www.mermininspections.com 239-243-7322
A builder here buys an extended warranty that covers years 2-5. Cost about $474. What a piece of mind for the buyers.
Linda Lipscomb, Homes fo Sale in Lexington, TN. www.lindalipscomb.com