Frequently Asked Qustions:
- Why should I have a home inspection?
Your home is the largest single investment most people make and you should know exactly what you are getting as far as needed repair and maintenance. Most people are emotionally attached to the buying descision and would not get a clear picture of the condition of the house. An emotionally detached (disinterested) evaluation by a professional experienced home inspector will clearly identify issues, specific maintenance concerns, safety shortfalls, and ideas about how to rectify these issues. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase. You should be provided enough information to feel very comfortable with your new home and your buying decision.
- What is a home inspection?
An inspection is an evaluation of the structure, systems, appliances, and environment by an independent , impartial professional. Home inspections require written reports. If you are purchasing a new home, you should have it evaluated by a professional prior to close of escrow.
- How long does a home inspection take?
Most home inspections take about 3-4 hours of actual inspection time. These times may vary depending on the size, age and condition of the home.
- What gets inspected when I have a professional home inspection?
A thorough inspection covers everything from the roof to the foundation. Obviously, only visible items can be inspected; items that are within the walls could not be included in the evaluation of the property. Items inspected include but are not limited to ...
- Roof & flashing
- Attic
- Framing
- Insulation
- Ventilation
- Gutters
- Siding & trim
- Ground drainage
- Retaining walls
- Driveways & walks
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- Fireplace
- Major Appliances
- Electrical system
- Plumbing system
- Water heater
- Air conditioning
- Heating system
- Safety equipment
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- Ceilings
- Floors
- Walls
- Windows & doors
- Chimney
- Basement
- Crawlspace
- Foundation
- .... and more.
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- When do I schedule an inspector?
The most typical time to schedule is immediately after the buyer has the house under contract. Time may be needed for scheduling conflicts. This also assures the house will not be under contract while the inspection is conducted.
A professionally trained home inspector who has been certified by a governing body like the International Code Councle (ICC) and/or the Georgia Association of Home Inspectors (GAHI), preferably one with many years experience.
- Should the inspector be licensed?
Yes, but, unlike your Realtor who had to complete extensive schooling and testing to receive his/her license, home inspectors are not legally required to be certified in Georgia - GA simply requires a business license. So be sure to ask questions carefully regarding certifications, experience, and ongoing education.
- How is the industry regulated?
Presently the inspection industry is self regualting. GAHI, the only association that requires ICC code certification before becoming a full member, has a standard of practice, and a code of ethics for all "certified" full members.
- How do I interview an inspector?
Ask the inspector the following questions.
- What kind of experience do you have?
Look for a home inspector that has been inspecting for some length of time. The previous background to home inspecting is also important. Many inspectors come from another discipline like plumbing or framing. This is good if you want only the plumbing or framing inspected. Some inspectors come from an unrelated field like the cell phone industry.
- How Long will an inspection take?
A typical inspection will take from 3-5 hours with another 1-2 hours for report documentation preparation.
- Ask if they plan to meet with you to review the report?
This service is crucial to understanding your report and is an important part of any professional home inspection.
- What kind of report will I receive?
Check list type reports are usually incomplete, difficult to read, and are limited to the amount of information they can present. Look for comuter generated narrative report customized to your home.
- What happens if the inspector honestly miss something?
Most all inspectors rely on an agreement form that makes it clear that the inspector could miss something while he is walking around. The inspection is not an insurance pollicy nor a warranty. This makes hiring a compentent, ethical inspector quite important.
- How much does the home inspection cost?
This is sometimes the first question asked, but tells the least about the inspector/inspection. Fees are generally based according to size, age and various other components of the home. A quality inspection backed by a company who's been in business a long time, with a reputation for standing behind their work sometimes requires a higher investment. The expense is worth it. It is minimal when you look at the overall cost of your home and you'll avoid headaches later on down the line.
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