Home Inspections what to Expect? There are a great deal of home buyers out there that don’t really know what to expect from a home inspection. Let me start by saying that a good home inspection will assist homebuyers make appropriate decisions. They can help you understand a home’s condition. If you are selling your home, an inspection can help you determine its value. Simply put, a home inspection is an on-site, in-person examination of a home’s condition and structure. It is a visual inspection of major elements and systems, like the foundation, the electrical and plumbing systems, the attic ventilation and the roof. A home inspection is not a pass or fail test. It doesn’t assess if a home meets zoning or building codes.
I’m sure that we have all heard the term “home inspection.” In our minds it’s very simple. From the definition above, An inspector comes into a house and looks around and makes sure that everything is ok. There’s really not much too it folks. But I want to take the time and break down some key point for home buyers so as to avoid any confusion.
A home inspector will typically examine the following:
•foundation
•doors and windows
•roof
•exterior walls
•attics
•plumbing and electrical systems (where visible)
•heating and air conditioning systems
•ceilings, walls and floors
•insulation (where visible)
•ventilation systems
•drainage away from buildings, slopes and natural vegetation
•overall assessment of structural integrity of the building(s)
•common areas in a condominium
Home inspectors complete a report of the property’s condition, as observed at the time of inspection. It will normally show:
•the condition of every major system and components of the home
•areas or parts of a home that are unsafe, need to be repaired or replaced, or may need to be repaired or replaced in the near future.
•if something is not working properly, is unsafe, or needs to be changed
•any evidence of past problems
After getting the results of a home inspection, a buyer may decide to:
•ask the seller to make certain repairs
•accept a defect and deal with its consequences
•ask for a price adjustment
•not buy the home
Some sellers may have an inspection done before selling a home. Although seeing a current inspection report can be helpful, buyers should have their own home inspection done too. It is important for a homebuyer to be present during an inspection. This gives them a chance to ask questions and see any issues first hand.
You should also keep in mind that:
•an inspector cannot see or find everything. For example, they may not find mould or may not be able to be able to inspect a roof that is covered with snow
•an inspector does not provide warranties or guarantees on a home’s condition
•inspectors are not required by law to have insurance coverage. However, many do have policies that can include general liability or errors and omissions coverage
home inspection fees range from $350 to $600 and may be higher, depending on the size and condition of the home.
So there you have it folks. Simple and to the point. I hope that this home inspection post will assist in clearing up any confusion or uncertainties that you may have with respect to this topic.
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