What Is An Inspection?
Our
inspection is a visual examination of the structure and
systems of a building. If you are thinking of buying a
home, condominium, mobile home, or commercial building,
you should have it thoroughly inspected before the final
purchase by an experienced and impartial professional
inspector.
What Does An Inspection Include?
Our
complete inspection includes a visual examination of the
building from top to bottom. Our inspector evaluates and
reports the condition of the structure, roof,
foundation, drainage, plumbing, heating system, central
air-conditioning system, visible insulation, walls,
windows, and doors. Only those items that are visible
and accessible by normal means are included in the
report.
When Do I Request An Inspector?
The
best time to consult Complete Home Inspection, Inc. is
right after you’ve made an offer on your new building.
The real estate contract usually allows for a grace
period to inspect the building. Ask your professional
agent to include this inspection clause in the contract,
making your purchase obligation contingent upon the
findings of a professional inspection.
Can a Building “FAIL” The
Inspection?
No. Our
professional inspection is simply an examination into
the current condition of your prospective real estate
purchase. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code
inspection. Our inspector, therefore, will not pass or
fail a building, but will simply describe its condition
and indicate which items will be in need of minor or
major repairs or replacement.
What If The Report Reveals Problems?
If our
certified inspector finds problems in a building, it
does not necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy it, only
that you will know in advance what type of repairs to
anticipate. A seller may be willing to make repairs
because of significant problems discovered by the
inspector. If your budget is tight, or if you do not
wish to become involved in future repair work, you may
decide that this is not the property for you. The choice
is yours.
If The Report Is Favorable, Did I Really Need An
Inspection?
Definitely! Now you can complete your purchase with
peace of mind about the condition of the property and
its equipment and systems. You may have learned a few
things about your property from the inspection report,
and will want to keep that information for your future
reference. Above all, you can rest assured that you are
making a well-informed purchase decision and that you
will be able to enjoy or occupy your new home or
building the way you want.
Why Do I Need An Inspection?
The
purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the
largest single investments you will ever make. You
should know exactly what to expect --- both indoors and
out -- in terms of needed and future repairs and
maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding
serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may
indicate a chronic roof leakage problem or may be simply
the result of a single incident. Our inspector
interprets these and other clues, then presents a
professional opinion as to the condition of the property
so you can avoid unpleasant surprises afterward. Of
course, a Complete Home Inspection will also point out
the positive aspects of a building, as well as the type
of maintenance needed to keep it in good shape. After
the inspection, you will have a much clearer
understanding of the property you are about to purchase,
and be able to make your decision confidently.
As a seller, if you have owned your building for a
period of time, an inspection can identify potential
problems in the sale of your building and can recommend
preventive measures which might avoid future expensive
repairs.
Why
can't I have someone in my family who is very handy or a
contractor, inspect my new home?
This is the biggest mistake many potential new
homeowners make when purchasing a home. Although the
person you are considering may be very skilled, they are
not trained or experienced at professional home
inspections. Professional home inspection is a unique
skill like no other. Our professional inspectors get
what we call an inspector's instinct for problems. That
instinct takes extensive training and lots of
experience. Many contractors, and other trades
professionals hire our professional home inspectors to
inspect their homes when they make a purchase.
Should I Attend The Inspection?
It is
not necessary for you to be present for the inspection,
but it is a good idea. By following our certified
inspector through the inspection, observing and asking
questions, you will learn about the new building and get
some tips on general maintenance. Information that will
be of great help to you after you’ve moved in.
How
Can I Speed Up the Inspection?
- Confirm gas, water
and electricity are turned on and gas pilot lights
are burning.
- Ensure pets won't
hinder inspection. Tell Realtor about cats or other
animals to be kept inside.
- Replace any burned
out light bulbs.
- Test all smoke and
carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if
needed.
- Clean or replace
dirty HVAC air filters. Verify filters fit and are
properly secured.
- Move wood, stored
items or debris away from foundation.
- Unlock or remove
locks from any items the inspector must access:
Gates, Attic, Electric service panels, special
closets, crawl space.
- Confirm areas and
components are accessible by removing items blocking
access to: Electric service panels, HVAC equipment,
water heaters, ground fault (GFCI) electric
receptacles, attic access ladders. Note: debris may
fall when hatch is opened. Remove items that may
restrict movement in attic or crawl space.
- Trim tree limbs back
from the roof and trim shrubs away from the house to
allow access.
- Repair or replace
broken, damaged or missing items: door knobs, locks
and latches, window locks, broken glass, window
screens, anti-siphon devices on outside faucets,
rain gutters and downspouts, chimney flue caps.
What
if I have questions after the inspection?
You can call Complete Home Inspection, inc. and discuss
all the aspects of your new home whenever you like. Our
service is a long-term investment.
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