What is a Home Inspection?

Frequently Asked Questions on Home Inspections

What is a home inspection?
What is included in a typical home inspection?
Do I need a home inspection?
What is the cost of a home inspection?
Can I do a home inspection myself?
Where do I find a home inspector?
When should I get a home inspection?
Should I attend the inspection?

What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an inspection of a property, including mechanical and structural systems, generally performed as part of a real estate transaction.
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What is included in a typical home inspection?
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. Home Inspections vary, although most home inspectors check the condition of heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical, the roof, attic, and structural components such as walls, ceilings floors, windows, doors, foundations, basements, and crawl spaces. You should always make sure your home inspector is checking not only for structural and mechanical failures but also for recalls using RecallChek. Finding a local home inspector is easy at www.InspectionCentral.net.

Every inspector at www.InspectionCentral.net exceeds the minimum standards of practice you will find typically at local, regional, and national home inspection associations.
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Do I need a home inspection?
Your real estate agent will likely recommend strongly that you get a home inspection as part of your real estate transaction. A home inspection allows you to address outstanding mechanical and structural defects with the seller of the property and negotiate repairs. Every transaction is different, the results of the response to the inspection will vary, but nearly every home buyer in North America gets a home inspection.
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What is the cost of a home inspection?
The inspection fee varies by area, and most inspectors will charge more for larger or older homes, as they take longer to inspect. While price is important when purchasing any product or service, it certainly isn't the only consideration. The top home inspection companies throughout the U.S. and Canada generally aren't the cheapest, but they tend to offer real added value like service guarantees, warranties on mechanical and structural components, guarantees on underground sewer and water lines that can't be inspected, and assurances that visible mold isn't present in the property. Asking the right questions about warranties and guarantees can lead to a much smoother transaction.
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Can I do a home inspection myself?
If you have knowledge of home systems, you may possibly be capable of inspecting a home. You may even consider making a career out of it! Visit www.InspectorServicesGroup.com for guidance in that regard. When it comes to a property you are purchasing, it isn't advisable. Local home inspection professionals are familiar with typical and customary inspection responses and are a third party to ensure you have an objective report when negotiating issues with the seller. Home Inspection is also not just about having the skillset to be able to uncover defects in mechanical and structural systems- it's also about putting those defects in a report that all parties can understand. The return on investment for an inspection is quite good even if your background in home construction and repair is immense.
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Where do I find a home inspector?
Around 90% of home buyers will utilize a home inspection company referred by their real estate agent, and for good reason- your agent has probably worked with many local inspectors and knows which can serve your needs best in most cases. If you're looking for more options, or you're not working with an agent, simply visit www.InspectionCentral.net and you will get a referral to 3 premium inspection service providers that offer a guarantee with their service.
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When should I get a home inspection?
In most cases the time for getting a home inspection is short and defined by the contract to purchase real property. Consult your agent or call 1-800-544-8156 for guidance.
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Should I attend the inspection?
There is no requirement that a home buyer attend a home inspection, but it is advised. It's a great opportunity to see any defects first hand and be able to ask questions.
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Feel free to log into our forum at www.HomeInspectionForum.net and ask questions about home inspections. Buyers, Sellers, Real Estate Agents, and Home Inspectors alike participate frequently and it is a great resource for information on home inspections.