FAQ
 

What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a comprehensive examination of a property's condition, including its structural integrity, major systems, and components. It helps identify potential issues or areas of concern before buying or selling a home.

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Why do I need a home inspection?
A home inspection is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Buyers gain valuable insight into the condition of the property they are considering, while sellers can identify any potential issues in advance and make necessary repairs or adjustments.

 

What does a home inspection cover?
A home inspection typically covers the examination of the property's foundation, roofing, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems, insulation, windows, doors, appliances, and other visible components. The inspector provides a detailed report of findings.

 

How long does a home inspection take?
The duration of a home inspection varies depending on the size, age, and condition of the property. On average, it can take between two to four hours. Larger or more complex properties may require more time.
 

The duration of an inspection can vary depending on:

• Size of home

• Number of defects

• Thoroughness of the inspector

• Homeowner preparation for inspection

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Can I attend the home inspection?

Yes, it is recommended that buyers attend the home inspection. It allows you to observe the inspector's findings and ask questions to gain a better understanding of the property's condition.

 

Can a home inspection uncover hidden issues?

While a home inspection is a comprehensive examination, it may not uncover all hidden issues. Some problems, such as concealed structural issues or hidden leaks, may require further specialized inspections or testing.

 

Do home inspectors provide repair estimates?

Home inspectors generally do not provide repair estimates. Their role is to identify issues and provide an unbiased assessment of the property's condition. However, they may be able to offer general guidance on the urgency and potential cost of repairs.

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Can a home inspection guarantee there are no issues?

No, a home inspection cannot guarantee that there are no issues with the property. It provides a snapshot of the property's condition at the time of inspection. Some issues may be hidden or may develop after the inspection.

 

Can a home inspection affect the home's sale price?

A home inspection can influence the negotiation process and potentially impact the sale price. Depending on the findings, buyers may request repairs or negotiate the price based on the estimated cost of addressing the identified issues.

 

How soon will I receive the home inspection report?

The timeframe for receiving the home inspection report varies by inspector and agreement. Typically, you can expect to receive the report within 24 to 48 hours after the inspection.

 

Can I use my home inspection report to negotiate repairs with the seller?
Yes, the home inspection report can be used as a basis for negotiating repairs or adjustments with the seller. It provides evidence of the property's condition and aids in determining fair requests for repairs or concessions.

 

What does an inspector look for when inspecting a home?

A Home inspector will look for the general condition of the house. Safety of course is the number one priority. A lot of small issues are addressed during a home inspection but the inspector will concentrate on big issues either because its a safety concern or it will cost a lot of money to fix the issue.

 

Who will receive a copy of the home inspection report?

The copy of the home inspections is usually provided to the buyer and his/her agent unless the buyer specifically asks that the agent not receive the report. The buyers agents usually need the report to negotiate any deficiencies that come up during a home inspection.

 

What should sellers expect from a home inspection?

It’s in your interest as a home seller to provide quick and easy access to everything on that home inspection checklist.

 

Here are some ways you can help:

• Leave keys (for instance, for your electrical panel), and label where they can be found

• Make sure all pilot lights are on for fireplaces and furnaces, even in summer, so the inspector can check the heating and other appliances

• Tidy your basement. There needs to be an unobstructed path down the steps and through to your furnace/HVAC unit/water heater and anything else that needs inspecting

• Tidy your attic same as your basement

• Clean up key areas in your yard so the inspector can easily access your crawl space, drainage access points, or septic tank

• If the home is vacant and the utilities have been shut off, have them reconnected

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My inspection report lists dozens of defects! What should I do?

Most reports list dozens of defects. Some defect lists run into three figures. That’s because there’s no such thing as a perfect home, especially if the property is a few decades old.

 

Don’t worry too much about the length of the inspector’s list of problems; instead, pay attention to the severity of the problems.

 

Many issues, such as loose doorknobs or cracks in the paved driveway, will be so minor you won’t bother fixing them right away, even though you know they’re there.

 

But some issues can be deal-breakers: problems with the physical structure of the home, for example, or safety issues such as lead pipes or an improper installation of a furnace or water heater.

 

Talk to your home inspector and real estate agent about the best path forward if you discover these types of issues.