A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from roof to foundation. A home inspection report or home inspection service is the equivalent of a physical examination from your doctor. When problems or symptoms of problems are found, the inspector may suggest repair options or recommend further evaluation, making the home inspection cost justified.  Back to top

A home inspection summarizes the condition of a property, identifying areas concerning health, safety, and environmental issues, which could affect the well-being of your family. The report points out the need for major repairs or areas that may need attention in the near future. Buyers depend on an accurate home inspection to maximize their knowledge of the property in order to make intelligent decisions before finalizing an agreement for sale or purchase.

A home inspection points out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the maintenance necessary to keep the house safe and healthy for your family. After an inspection, both sellers and buyers have a clearer understanding of the value and needs of the property.

For homeowners, an inspection may identify emerging problems in the making and what preventive measures to take in order to avoid costly repairs. When planning to sell your home, an inspection prior to listing your home provides a better understanding of the current conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector, and provides you an opportunity to make repairs or corrective actions that will make your home more desirable to potential buyers.  Back to top

Do not let the cost deter you from having a home inspection or selecting an inspector you are comfortable with – knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the time and expense. The lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's qualifications, including experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration in your selection. If problems are found you may be able to have the seller complete the repairs before settlement saving you money. These repairs typically cost more than the home inspection fee making the inspection pay for itself.   Back to top

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. A professional home inspector has the experience, depth of knowledge and training to make an unbiased and informed report of the condition of a property. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, proper installation of equipment and its maintenance. An inspector understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, and how and why they fail. An inspector knows what to look for and is uniquely suited to interpret what their findings reveal about the condition of the property.

Most buyers find it difficult to remain objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information about the condition of a home, always obtain an impartial third-party home inspector with sound credentials in the home inspection field.   Back to top

No. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your home and indicates what may need repair or replacement. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance to local codes and standards.   Back to top

Members of ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) are independent professional home inspectors who have met technical and experience requirements in the industry. Prospective ASHI members must pass two written technical examinations, must have performed a minimum of 250 professional fee-paid home inspections, and must maintain their candidate status for no less than six months. ASHI members are required to follow the Society's Code of Ethics, and to obtain continuing education credits in order to keep current with the latest in building technology, materials, and professional skills.   Back to top

When you sign the contract or purchase agreement, make your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated. Contact a home inspector immediately. Home inspectors are aware of the time constraints involved in purchase agreements and most are available to conduct the required inspection within a few days.   Back to top

While it is not necessary for you to be present, it is always recommended that you make time to join the inspector for the inspection. This allows you to observe the inspector, ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain them. After you have seen the property with the inspector, you will find the written report easier to understand.   Back to top

No house is perfect. When the inspector identifies problems, it does not indicate you should not buy the house. His findings serve to educate you in advance of the purchase about the condition of the property. A seller may make necessary repairs or may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are discovered during an inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely valuable.   Back to top

Yes. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence about the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. From the inspection, you will have learned many things about your new home, and will want to keep that information for future reference.   Back to top

FHA insures the lender against default by the borrower. FHA does not guarantee the value or condition of the property for the borrower. If you find problems with the property after loan closing, FHA cannot give or lend you money to repair the house or buy the home back from you. We suggest a home inspection to reduce the chance of problems before closing the loan.   Back to top

No. An appraisal is an estimated market value of the property and is used to set the maximum amount the lender will lend on the property. As in anything else, it pays to get a home inspection from someone who has the proper credentials, training, and experience.   Back to top

A home inspection provides an impartial, in-depth, evaluation of the physical condition of the property. The inspector also identifies items that need replacement or repair, and the life expectancy of the equipment and components in the house. For example, the report could tell you the roof currently looks OK and should last another 3-5 years but it has three layers of shingles. So, the next time the roof is re-shingled, the expense will be significantly more than replacing a typical roof due to the additional labor required to remove all previous layers of shingle. Thus, a well-done inspection will aid the buyer in planning and budgeting for future home repairs.  Back to top