Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do I Need A Home Inspection?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you most individuals or families will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy, so you can minimize unexpected surprises afterward. Upon completion of the inspection, you will have a far greater understanding of the property.
If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection may be used to identify problems in the making and take preventative measures which might help to avoid costly repairs in the future. If you are planning to sell your home or building, you may wish to have an inspection performed prior to placing your property on the market. This should give you a better understanding of the conditions likely to be discovered by the buyer's inspector and provide an opportunity to make repairs that will put the property in a better selling position. Having an inspection will help you comply with current disclosure laws concerning the sale of your property.
Can I Do It Myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and years of expertise of a professional home inspector. An qualified inspector is familiar with most elements of home construction and remains completely objective.
Can A Home Inspection Fail?
NO! A professional North Carolina home inspection is a visual examination of the condition of the home (or commercial property) on the day it is inspected; not to be confused with or considered an appraisal, which determines market value or a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance, but rather describes its visible physical condition and indicates what may need major repairs in the near future.
Do I Have To Be There?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is highly recommended that ou come towards the end of the inspection. At that time, you will be able to accompany the inspector and ask questions directly as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work and how to maintain it. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you've seen the property firsthand through the inspectors eyes.
Who Hires The Inspector?
The Client (Buyer or Seller) usually retains the inspector. The Inspector works for you (The person paying for the inspection). The report cannot be given to anyone else without your written or verbal consent.
How Much Does the inspection Cost?
The purchase of a home or property will likely be one the most expensive investments people will make in their lifetime. Many factors contribute to the cost of the inspection. It really does not make sense to shop for the least expensive inspector you can find, and we strongly suggest you to NOT do so. As the saying goes, "You get what you pay for". That is most certainly true in todays world, as you almost always get what you pay for. Further more, Check for proper State Licensing and Insurances before hiring an inspector. A Home Inspection (or Inspector) can not guarantee any latent problems will not occur on any home, as even most newly built construction homes are also not perfect on their move in date.
A Certified Home Inspector typically will point out existing or potential problems that would require attention either by the seller or buyer.
10 THINGS TO DO BEFORE SELLING YOUR HOME
1.) Confirm that water, electric and gas service are on, with gas pilot lights burning.
2.) Ensure pets won't hinder the inspection. Ideally, they should be removed from premises or secured outside. Tell your agent about any pets at home.
3.) Replace burned out bulbs to avoid a "Light is inoperable" report that may suggest an electrical problem.
4.) Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace dead batteries.
5.) Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters. They should fit securely.
6.) Remove stored items, debris and wood from foundation. These may be cited as "conducive conditions" for termites.
7.) Remove items blocking access to HVAC equipment, electric service panels, water heaters, attics and crawl spaces.
8.) Unlock areas the inspector must access - attic doors or hatches, electric service panels, closets, fence gates and crawl spaces.
9.) Trim tree limbs to 10' from the roof and shrubs from the house to allow access.
10.) Attend to broken or missing items like doorknobs, locks and latches; windowpanes, screens and locks; gutters, downspouts and chimney caps.
Checking these areas before your home inspection is an investment in selling your property. Your real estate agent will thank you!
**BONUS: Acquire a Home Inspector to perform a "Pre-Listing" Home Inspection!**
RSS Feed