FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?
A home inspection is an objective visual and physical examination 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. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation and repair by a licensed professional in a specific field. The average A.C.E. home inspection lasts approximately two hours.
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 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.
What Does a Inspection Report Include?
Following the inspection, a computer generated narrative inspection report with a summary page and pictures is prepared and emailed to you and your agent in less than 24-hrs. The report details the general condition of the home and its components. The back pages of the report is a summary page. It lists only those items identified in the report as defective, damaged or in need of maintenance efforts. The inspector then provides the report with a professional binder that has a tabulated illustrated guide that explains how the house was inspected and areas of importance. Also included is a copy of the ASHI Standards of Practice.
SHOULD I BE THERE?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is recommended and preferred. 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 inspection report easier to understand if you’ve seen the property first-hand through the inspector’s eyes.
WHAT IF THE INSPECTION REVEALS PROBLEMS?
No house is in perfect condition. If the inspector identifies problems, it does not mean you should not buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. You can have the seller adjust the purchase price or make repairs if major problems are found.
CAN A HOUSE FAIL INSPECTION?
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.
WHAT IS ASHI®?
The American Society of Home Inspectors® (ASHI®) is the oldest and leading non-profit professional association for independent home inspectors. Since its formation in 1976, ASHI’s Standards of Practice have served as the home inspector’s performance guideline, universally recognized and accepted by professional and government authorities alike.
WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE?
As a members of ASHI® We have met the most rigorous technical and experience requirements in effect today. To become an ASHI Member, an inspector must pass two written technical exams, have performed a minimum of 250 professional fee-paid home inspections, and maintained his or her candidate status for no less than six months. We have worked in the home inspection business for over sixteen years. We have performed numerous home inspections.
WHEN DO I CALL A.C.E.?
A home inspector is contacted after the contract 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.
WHAT IS RADON?
Radon is a cancer causing radioactive gas. Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up. Any home may have a radon problem.