By Monica DeVore

 

A home inspection is a vital piece of the home buying process.  It gives you invaluable information as to the current status of the property and insight of what you might expect in the years to come in your new home. It also prepares you as a home buyer for possible ongoing negotiations during the purchase process.

 

Today home inspections are routinely done on homes of all ages, price points and regardless of home’s perceived quality.  As a realtor who firmly believes in INFORMED buyers, I would never suggest buying a property without having a professional inspection!

 

The structural integrity and safety of a property are key aspects of an inspector’s review. Among these are construction and design errors or wear/failure of key items (siding and roofing, heating and cooling equipment). Important among these would be the home’s foundation or electrical components.  The repair/replacement costs for foundation problems and changes in electrical code safety requirements can add up quickly.

 

What can I expect from my home inspection?

 

An inspector is required to review parts, systems, components and conditions that are visible at the time of inspection.  They will check the functionality of mechanical and electrical equipment, and appliances in normal modes and operating ranges just like you would use them.

 

Your report will notify you of the status of these items, and those parts and components of any they were not able to inspect.  There are some areas inspectors may not be able to access or see.  Some of these include: framing behind walls, under floor coverings, attic with insufficient or unsafe access, areas with furnishings or other items blocking access – garages, closets, etc. 

 

Again, key points included in the report will be any findings indicating need of repair. And most importantly there will be the notice of any safety issues found.

 

What a HOME INSPECTION is NOT…

 

–    It is NOT a warranty.

–    NOT an exhaustive inspection of every component or aspect of the home. Inspectors are not specialists in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, structural engineering, etc. If significant concerns are found they will refer you to one.

–    NOT an appraisal.  A home value is the combination of many factors and is done by a licensed appraiser.

–    NOT a mold inspection.

–    Does NOT identify recalled appliances, equipment or systems.  Some may be available, but inspectors cannot identify every product recall.

–    Is NOT an asbestos or lead paint determination.

–    NOT a pass/fail report.  Lenders have minimum requirement standard for their collateral, by you the buyer must make the decision based upon the report’s finding.

–    It is NOT a wood destroying insect (termite) inspection.  This must be done by a license pest control professional.

 

There are basic standards for the minimum requirements – an inspector can always do more, but not less.  You can review the American Society of Home Inspectors’ standards here:  Standard of Practice for Home Inspections .  Remember, you want an inspector you can trust to provide the most accurate information with no concerns they are trying to sell you some product or service.

 

HOW do I find a home inspector?

 

There are several resources to explore, such as referrals from recent homebuyers, the Better Business Bureau or your real estate agent.  I have worked with many home inspectors and have found these are important things to ask:

 

–     Are you licensed and what’s your license number?

–     When are you available?

–     Will I be able to attend the inspection?

–     Can I see a sample report?

–     When and what method will I receive my report?

–     What will it costs me?

 

One attribute I feel is extremely important is the willingness of the inspector to answer any questions my client may have –prior to the beginning of the inspection, during and after.  I stress to my clients YOU are PAYING for this service, you have HIRED them and you deserve answers!

 

If you have any further questions about home inspections or other aspects of the home buying process, give us a call!  Monica 865-661-7790 or Jackie 865-300-6296.  We would love to assist you on your home buying journey.