It is extremely important for you to have the home that you plan to purchase professionally inspected. The basic process involves a home inspector who is hired by the buyer to perform a thorough investigation of the structure and systems on the buyer's behalf. The inspection typically takes from 2 - 4 hours and should consist of a check of at least the following items:
- Interior & Exterior
- Systems: Heating & Air, Electrical and Plumbing
- Foundation and Grounds
- Foundation
- Structure including Roof & Attic
It is not necessary that you be at the home during the entire inspection. However, I recommend that you schedule it so that you can arrive during the last 20-30 minutes and allow the inspector to physically show you each of the defects or conditions derived during the inspection. The report provided will outline the entire inspection but I've found it's much easier for you to understand and feel comfortable about your purchase if you have the opportunity to ask questions specifically about each item while you are standing in the home.
Below are some questions to ask as you interview inspectors. This is another cost of buying a home and you want your money to be well spent.
1. What are your qualifications? Are you a member of the Georgia Association of Home Inspectors, American Association of Home Inspectors or National Association of Home Inspectors?
2. Do you have a current license? Inspectors are not required to be licensed in every state.
3. How many inspections of properties such as this do you do each year?
4. Do you have a list of past clients I can contact?
5. Do you carry professional errors and omission insurance? May I have a copy of the policy?
6. Do you provide any guarantees of your work?
7. What specifically will the inspection cover?
8. What type of report will I receive after the inspection?
9. How long will the inspection take and how long will it take to receive the report?
10. How much will the inspection cost?
It's a good idea to interview 2 or more professionals for any job you are considering. Cost is also not the driving factor; a thorough inspection with complete details of repair or replacement items is the goal. Spending hundreds to do the inspection can save thousands down the road!
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