Frequently Asked Questions About Home Inspections
WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you 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. This will minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards. If you are already a home owner, a home inspection may be used to identify problems in the making and learning preventive measures. This can help a home owner avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, you may wish to have an inspection prior to placing your home on the market. This will give you a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector. It also gives you an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.
HOW LONG DOES A HOME INSPECTION TAKE?
Inspections normally take between two to three hours. Times will vary depending on the age, size and conditions of the home.
DO I GET A WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE WITH MY HOME INSPECTION?
No. An inspection is a report of the current condition of the property on the day it was inspected. Inspectors do not open up walls, dig up or expose utilities, or otherwise engage in destructive testing. Inspectors report on systems that can be reasonably viewed and accessed in accordance with the rules set forth by the Texas Real Estate Commission, Standards of Practice (SOP).
WHAT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS AFTER THE INSPECTION?
Call us anytime. Our client's peace of mind is important to the ongoing success of our business. In some cases clients from several years previous call to ask questions. Robert is always available by phone or email to answer any questions you may have.
WHAT IF THERE ARE LARGE OBJECTS OR FURNITURE OBSTRUCTING AREAS OF THE HOME?
Please ask the current home owner to move the items if they are blocking areas that will need to be inspected, i.e. attic accesses, electrical panels, etc. We are not able to move these items.
CAN A HOUSE FAIL INSPECTION?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what may need repair or replacement.
DO I NEED TO BE PRESENT AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection but it is recommended. You will be able to observe 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 have seen the property first-hand through the inspector's eyes. Many clients arrive at the home inspection about 1½ to 2 hours into the inspection. They are there in enough time for an explanation of the findings.
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