Learn more about your inspection with our frequently asked questions.

:: Frequently asked inspection-related questions ::

WHAT DOES AN INSPECTION INCLUDE?

Inspectors typically spend 2 1/2 to 3 hours performing a thorough, visual, functional and operational inspection of the many mechanical and structural components of the home or building. The inspection generally includes an evaluation of such important elements as: Grounds, Foundation, Structural, Attics, Roofs, Plumbing, Electrical, Heating, Air Conditioning, Appliances, etc. Additional services include items such as Pools, Private Water or Sewage (Septic) Systems, Radon, etc. Typically, a detailed report written in language that you can understand, will be furnished at or shortly after the time of the inspection. A verbal consultation is often part of the inspection process. Make sure when contacting your chosen inspection company you ask these questions as the answers can vary from company to company.

CAN A BUILDING "FAIL" ITS INSPECTION?

No. A professional inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your prospective home or building. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection. An inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items will be in need of major repair or replacement immediately or near future. If you need a code inspection, for example new construction inspections often require code-based reports, please contact your chosen company and ask if they specialize in these types of inspections.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

Inspector's primary purpose is to educate their clients so they can make informed decisions. MOST INSPECTORS ENCOURAGE YOU TO ATTEND THE HOME INSPECTION. By attending, you will learn first hand about how the various components and systems of the house work together to create a safe and secure shelter for your family and where possible repairs may be done to make it even better. Different companies have different policies regarding inspection attendance. Please discuss this policy with your chosen company when they call to confirm your inspection.

IF THE HOUSE OR BUILDING PROVES TO BE IN GOOD CONDITION, WAS THE COST OF THE INSPECTION JUSTIFIED?

Absolutely. Now you can go forward with the purchase of your home or building confidently and with peace of mind. You will have a better understanding of your home or building and how best to schedule and budget future repairs or renovations. The inspector's report will prove invaluable in planning and working with contractors and vendors.

WHEN DO I CALL IN THE INSPECTOR?

An inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the purchase contract, specifying that your purchase obligation is contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated with respect to the findings of the inspection.

CAN'T I DO IT MYSELF?

Even the most experienced homeowner/investor lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes and building in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home and building construction, proper system installation and maintenance. The inspector understands how the systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house or building they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of building inspection.

WHAT IS COVERED BY AN INSPECTION?

Each Buyer or Seller will have different needs depending upon the property in question. Home inspection companies offer a wide range of services and are flexible in adjusting their services to accommodate the specific needs of either the Buyer or the Seller. A typical home inspection covers a thorough visual and non-invasive inspection of the major structural elements and systems of the home that are accessible. The following list represents, but is not necessarily limited to, the concerns addressed in each area being inspected:

Basement structure - Water penetration, water damage, structural integrity of walls, insect damage, structural integrity of support systems, window condition, floor condition, and condition of finished walls and ceilings;
Crawlspace structure - Water penetration, water damage, ventilation, structural integrity of walls, support systems, insect damage and insulation including defect locations and overall condition;
Slab Structure - Water seepage into ducts (under slab), settlement and cracks;
Exterior - Walls, soffits and fascia, gutters, roof, flashing, skylights and chimney(s);
Grounds - Walks/steps, driveway, patio, porch, retaining walls, railings, balconies and drainage;
Roof - Type, condition, leakage, age, replacement probability;
Attic - Structure, roof decking, insulation, ventilation and water penetration;
Plumbing Systems - Water lines, waste pipes, vent pipes, fixtures and faucets, caulking and grouting, drainage, water pressure, water heater and gas pipes;
Electrical Systems - Amp rating, voltage, breakers, fuses, main panel, sub-panels, main service wire, branch wire, switches and receptacles, light fixtures, door bell and smoke detectors;
Air Conditioners - age, condition, type, ductwork, airflow, filter, thermostat;
Furnace / Heaters - Heat exchanger, burners/elements, blower fan, ducts, airflow, filter, flue pipe, humidifier and thermostat;
Appliances - Operation of: Range, oven, exhaust fans, refrigerator, dishwasher, in-sink disposal and trash compactor (Note: Not all inspection companies survey appliances);
Interior - Walls and ceilings, floors, steps and stairs, railings, doors, windows, and fireplace.

WHAT TYPES OF INSPECTION SERVICES ARE NEEDED?

Whether buying or selling, a home inspection by professionals offers peace of mind and investment protection. A typical home inspection will include a survey and analysis of all house systems including heating and cooling, electrical, plumbing, appliances, interior and exterior structure, roof, doors, windows, attic, basement and crawl spaces. The goal is to uncover as well as anticipate any problems that may affect the closing process, or involve significant cost to repair, replace or remedy.

In addition to the standard home inspection, most houses should be inspected for wood destroying organisms, (this is commonly referred to as a "termite inspection," or WDO), and should reveal any active infestation and/or visible damage resulting from invasion of wood destroying organisms. Most mortgage companies require this type of inspection. It must be performed by a company specifically licensed to do WDO inspections.