Home Inspections
A home inspection is a physical and non-invasive examination of the condition, structure, and systems of a house. It usually occurs during the due diligence period
of the sale of a home: the period between the contract and closing on the home. The main purpose of every home inspection is to note the physical condition of the home,
detect items that would need to be repaired or replaced and to determine the remaining useful life of the major systems. Usually, the home inspections reveal problems
with the property which may or may not be serious enough to prevent the sale of the home.
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), some of the components that are required to be reviewed by the home inspectors are as follows:
The Roofing
The HVAC system
Interior plumbing and electrical systems
Attic, Ceilings, and Walls
Windows and doors
Foundations and crawl space
Basement
Structure
items revealed on the home inspection report that is in need of repair or replacement are usually negotiated between both parties. The seller is not obligated to make
repairs on problems revealed by the home inspection report neither is the buyer obligated to purchase the home if the buyer is not satisfied with the outcome of the home
inspection. A great and knowledgable Realtor will guide you during this period to protect you from potential pitfalls which you may ordinarily not be aware of and prevent
you from making costly mistakes.
Your Realtor should also be able to provide recommendations to some great Home Inspectors in the area that will do a great job, you may also get recommendations from
family friends and colleagues who have used them in the past or check the phone book under "home inspections". The cost of a typical home inspection would range from
200-500 or more depending on the size of the home or complexity of the inspections.
Apart from the general home inspections, there may be other inspections that the property may need, which may not be within the scope of the home inspector. For
example, if the home has a septic tank, it is recommended that it be tested for functionality. This is typically done by septic tank professionals and the cost is separate.
The cost for the inspection typically starts from $450, of course this is nothing compared to the cost of replacement of a septic tank (begins anywhere from $4,500) if it
failed but was not addressed during the home inspection.
Ask your Realtor for a list of potential inspections that may be needed and potential costs as well to help you make an informed decision.