What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the condition of the home and property. The inspection includes observation and, when appropriate, operation of the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and appliance systems, as well as structural components: roof, attic, foundation, basement, exterior and interior walls, chimney, doors, and windows.

Findings will be provided to you in the form of a comprehensive report together with a recommended action. It is vital that such a report includes an objective evaluation of the condition of the home, clearly relating existing defects and indicating potential problems.

WHAT A HOME INSPECTION IS NOT...     

A home inspection is not an appraisal, and vice versa.

An appraisal is the formal process of estimating a property's value as it relates to a mortgage loan or mortgage insurance. It does not itemize defects or reflect potential problems in the home, To ensure an objective evaluation of a home's condition, many lenders encourage home buyers to use private inspection services, and some employers reimburse home inspection fees as part of their relocation programs.

A home inspection report is not a warranty.

Because a home inspection is a visual examination of the home and operating systems, it is not technically exhaustive. There is no assurance, expressed or implied, that equipment will not break down at some future date. However, such protection is available when a home inspection is complemented by a home warranty. When the services are used in conjunction with one another, a home warranty covers the items that were serviceable at the time of the inspection and subsequently fail due to normal wear and tear.

A home inspection does not detect every conceivable flaw.

It is an inspection of those areas and items that can be seen. Home inspectors cannot see through foundation, floors or walls, and cannot inspect areas or items that are inaccessible and generally do not move furniture.

OF SPECIAL INTEREST TO HOME BUYERS     

Buying a home is largely an emotional experience. Sometimes it's love at first sight. But often love is blind, and many buyers learn too late of such unseen conditions as cracked foundations, deteriorated plumbing, worn out heating systems, or dangerous wiring. A professional home inspection is your best resource in identifying such pitfalls and their consequences, such as:

You may have some knowledge of construction, or a friend or relative may have a background in plumbing or carpentry, but there is no substitute for the objective eye of a skilled and qualified home inspector who has been trained to look, what to look for, and how to evaluate hundreds of key points throughout the property. Unlike the home buyer whose observations are likely to be partial, the home inspector performs his role with an unbiased attitude and with the best interest of the customer.

Keep in mind, a home purchase is one of the largest long term investments of your life. As a result, you need to know as much as possible about your prospective purchase. By identifying existing or potential areas of concern, the inspection report will help secure your investment, avoid post-closing surprises, and provide you with peace of mind. An insightful report is fundamental to making the right buying decision.