A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home from the roof to the foundation. The inspection should be performed by a state licensed home inspector and provide a written report as to the condition of all the components of the home.

The purchase of a home may very well be the largest investment you ever make. A home inspection will provide you with important information as to the condition of the home and identify problems that need to be corrected.

All systems of the home are evaluated. These systems include: structural components, exterior (siding, doors and windows, decks and porches, driveways), roof, plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning, interior areas, insulation and ventilation, crawl space, attic, and kitchen appliances.

Home inspection prices vary based on the size, type, age, condition, and travel distance. All inspections will be priced individually based on these criteria.

The average home inspection will take between 2 and 4 hours. All inspections are different and times will vary according to size, condition, number of rooms, etc. The report is usually completed the same or next day and delivered by email. Reports can also be hand delivered or sent via U.S. Mail by request. 

Yes and no. Some lenders will require a home inspection as part of the purchase process while others will not. Cash buyers are not required to have an inspection.  

Absolutely. Can you imagine buying a car without a test drive or even looking under the hood? You are taking a chance on the car being in good reliable condition. Same with a home. Issues discovered during an inspection could cost thousands of dollars to correct. One such discovery before purchase would more than pay for the cost of the inspection.

As soon as possible after the purchase agreement or contract is signed. Buyers should be sure to have a clause included in the purchase agreement or contract that makes the purchase contingent on the findings of the professional home inspection report. The clause should specify the terms to which the buyer and seller are obligated.

This is up to each individual client. Some clients may live far away and it would not be feasible to be present. Some would prefer to leave the inspecting to the inspector and read the report later. Some like to be present for every minute and ask questions along the way. Some like to be present right after the inspection and have a walk thru of the home to go over any issues found or other points of interest.

As a home inspector, I have encountered all of these clients. I allow each client to choose their level of participation in the inspection.

No. The home inspection is a snapshot of the condition of the home at the time of the inspection. The inspection identifies issues with components or systems that need further evaluation or correction.

Yes. A pre-sale inspection is a great idea. The inspection will reveal problem areas that can be corrected prior to the sale. This makes the home selling process smoother and reduces the stress of having to rush to correct problems before closing or even losing the sale.