"QUOTA"
Questions "U" Ought To Ask
Q. WHAT IS A "HOME INSPECTION"?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical
structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Having a home
inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are
found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation.
Q. WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE?
The standard home inspector's report will review the condition of the home's
heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting),
interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible
insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation,
basement, and visible structure.
Q. 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, so that you can
minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards.
Of course, a home inspection also points out the positive aspects of a home,
as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape.
After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property
you are about to purchase.
If you are already a home owner, a home inspection may be used to identify
problems in the making and to learn preventive measures which might 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,
and an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling
condition.
Q. WHAT WILL IT COST?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as
does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may
vary depending upon the size of the house, particular features of the house, its
age, and possible additional services, such as septic, well, or radon testing.
It is a good idea to check local prices on your own.
However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a
home inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The knowledge
gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced
inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's qualifications,
including his experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the
most important consideration.
Q. CAN'T I DO IT MYSELF?
Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a
professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of
homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of
home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she
understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function
together, as well as how and why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective
and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their
judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial
third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.
Q. Should I Use An Engineer?
Some people would have you believe that only an engineer is qualified to perform
home inspections. In some cases consumers have been led to believe that a home
inspection involves engineering analysis and therefore requires the use of a
licensed Professional Engineer.
Visual home inspections do not involve engineering
analysis, even when performed by PE's. In fact, engineering is an entirely
different type of investigation, which entails detailed scientific measurements,
tests, calculations, and / or analysis. Such a technically exhaustive analysis
involves considerable time and expense, and is only appropriate when visual
evidence exists to indicate a problem that warrants further specialized
investigation.
In most states a Professional Engineer can simply state that he/she is a PE,
regardless whether the degree was obtained in mechanical, electrical, civil,
sanitary, structural or any other discipline of engineering.
Using a home inspector rather than an engineer for a basic home inspection
would be like visiting your family doctor / physician rather than a specialist
for a general checkup. You don't visit a brain surgeon or heart specialist for a
yearly physical. If the general practitioner finds something unusual or
something that warrants further analysis, he / she will refer you to the
appropriate specialist.
A good home inspector will recommend either the services of an engineer,
disciplined in a particular field, or other specialist when the need for further
investigation is warranted.
Q. 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, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its
physical condition and indicate what may need repair or replacement.
Q. WHEN DO I CALL IN THE HOME INSPECTOR?
A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase
agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However,
before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract,
making 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.
Q. DO I HAVE TO BE THERE?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is
strongly 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've seen the property first-hand through the inspector's eyes.
Q. WHAT IF THE REPORT REVEALS PROBLEMS?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't
necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance
what to expect. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if
major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish to
become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely
important to you.
Q. IF THE HOUSE PROVES TO BE IN GOOD CONDITION, DID I
REALLY NEED AN INSPECTION?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with your eyes open as to
the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also
have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written
report, and will want to keep that information for future reference.
