WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTION INCLUDE?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover
the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning
system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical
systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings,
floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural
components.
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
publishes
Standards of Practice and
Code of Ethics that outlines what you
should expect to be covered in your home inspection report.
What's Included in Your Helpful Home
Inspection?
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WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?
Buying a home could be the largest single
investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and
unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about
the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home
inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder
oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good
shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which
will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
If you already are a homeowner, a home
inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive
measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home
inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put
the house in better selling condition.
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WHAT WILL IT COST?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house
varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within
a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of
factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional
services such as septic, well or radon testing.
Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home
inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of
security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the
cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain.
Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training,
compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional
affiliations as a guide.
Call 610-565-1366 for a
price quote or to schedule your Helpful Home Inspection.
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WHY CAN'T I DO IT MYSELF?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the
knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector
is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper
installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the
home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as
well as why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely
objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this
may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is
best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in
the field of home inspection.
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CAN A HOUSE FAIL A HOME INSPECTION?
No. A professional home inspection is an
examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an
appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal
inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector,
therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its
physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need
major repair or replacement.
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WHAT IS THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HOME
INSPECTORS® (ASHI)?
Since 1976, ASHI has worked to build consumer
awareness of home inspection and to enhance the professionalism of its
membership. The ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics serves
as a performance guideline for home inspectors, and is universally
recognized and accepted by many professional and governmental bodies.
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WHO BELONGS TO ASHI®?
ASHI is an organization of independent,
professional home inspectors who are required to make a commitment,
from the day they join as ASHI Associates, to conduct inspections in
accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics,
which prohibits engaging in conflict-of-interest activities that might
compromise their objectivity. ASHI Associates work their way to ASHI
Certified Inspector
status as they meet rigorous requirements, including passing a
comprehensive, written technical exam and performing a minimum of 250
professional, fee-paid home inspections conducted in accordance with
the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Mandatory
continuing education helps the membership stay current with the latest
in technology, materials and professional skills.
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WHEN DO I CALL IN THE HOME INSPECTOR?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted
immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed.
Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales
contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the
findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify
the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are
obligated.
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DO I HAVE TO BE THERE?
While it’s not required that you be present for
the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe
the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of
the home and how to maintain it.
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WHAT IF THE REPORT REVEALS PROBLEMS?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies
problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only
that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight,
or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this
information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a
seller may agree to make repairs.
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IF THE HOUSE PROVES TO BE IN
GOOD CONDITION, DID I REALLY NEED AN INSPECTION?
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