THE IMPORTANCE OF A HOME INSPECTION
Nearly all home buyers know that they should get a home inspection before purchasing. What they don’t know is just what a home inspection covers, and, more importantly, what it does not. This is important information to know.
Many home buyers, particularly many first time buyers have very little knowledge about home construction and its components, and they may have difficulty deciphering home inspection reports. Many don't know how to figure out which types of defects are serious or whether their home inspector checked all the essentials.
They don’t know what questions to ask or even if they are allowed to ask questions and participate in the process. In our opinion, this is a really important step in the home buying process and the buyer should take advantage of the opportunity to gain as much knowledge and understanding as possible of the place that they are considering buying.
There are no downsides to having an inspection done, even in a newer home.
Even with new construction methods and increased oversight over them, it is still possible to discover defects that would otherwise have gone unnoticed. They may be small issues, but they could be something else.
If the inspector gives the house the all clear and "thumbs up", the peace of mind that comes with having that knowledge is worth many times the price of the inspection itself.
However, if the inspection reveals some serious issues, you will be in a position to:
• accept the defects and the need for repairs knowing what you are facing
• to renegotiate the purchase agreement
• or to simply walk away from the deal.
In any of these cases, the inspection will have more than paid for itself many times over.
Some Basic Considerations when Making your Choice
Deal with a Certified, Qualified Professional
Licensing requirements for housing inspectors have tightened up significantly over the last few years. That is good news for consumers. The inspector should be willing to discuss his/her credentials and to provide letters of reference. Check them out carefully before committing.
Interview the inspector personally. Does he or she seem like a good fit for your personality? Does he or she seem eager to help you understand what is going on? You are placing a lot of trust and responsibility in this person, so it is important to make the right choice.
Subject Matter of the inspection
Have the inspector explain, preferably in writing, what is inspected and what is not during the inspection. Are you able to attend the inspection and ask questions/?
Different inspectors may have different inspecting protocols. Make sure that everything you want looked at will be covered. Make sure that you understand why the things that aren’t inspected are excluded from the inspection and what risks you may run from not inspecting the excluded areas.
Report & Recommendations
How are the results presented to you? Do you get a written report? Does the inspector take time to personally review the results with you? Are there estimated costs attached to any recommended or necessary repairs? Are there maintenance plans included?
