What is a home inspection? A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation.

Do I need to be present for the inspection? It is not required for you to be there but we recommend it to all my clients, especially if you are a first time home buyer. We may offer many tips for upkeep and maintenance of your new home.

What do you inspect? All visual parts of your house as shown in the diagram below Home Inspection Diagram

Can a home FAIL an inspection? No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or 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 may need repair or replacement.

What if a home inspection reveals problems? If the home inspector discovers problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. This information is used to inform you of possible future repairs whether it be major or minor.

For items that require repair or replacement, will the inspector tell me the costs of each? Cost estimates from home inspectors are only that, estimates. Because there are thousands of components in a home it is difficult to provide specific cost estimates. For more detailed estimates or even quoted prices, the client should call licensed and qualified contractors. We always recommend obtaining quotes from 3 licensed professionals before awarding a job to one.

Will the inspector tell me which repairs the seller should take care of and which ones I should repair myself? The home inspector’s goal is for you to have a complete understanding of your home, including the magnitude of any repair items that may need attention. Without knowledge of the sales price, value of the home or other issues surrounding the purchase, however, the decisions about who should make repairs are best left to the client with the advice of their real estate professional or attorney.