Frequently Asked Questions ??
What qualifications do you have?
I am a member of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors and also an ASHI Associate member. I completed an intense 66-hour inspector certification course, which is approved by all states that require any sort of training and / or certification. I have passed all the required NACHI exams, and continue to fulfill continuing education requirements. I am a certified FEMA disaster inspector, and also a Licensed Florida insurance adjuster.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a 3rd party visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home. To ensure proper function and that there are no signs of previous or possibly future problems.
Why do I need a home inspection?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. You should know exactly what to expect-both indoor and out-in terms of repair and maintenance and their costs. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Watermarks may indicate a chronic or serious problem or may be simply the result of a single incident. The home inspector interprets these and other clues, and then presents his professional opinion as to the condition of the property before you buy, so you can avoid unpleasant surprises afterwards. Of course, a home inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the type of maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of what it is you are about to purchase, and you will be able to make your decision confidently. If you have owned your home for a period of time, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and recommend preventive measures, which might avoid future repairs.
What is a warranty inspection?
When you purchased your new home you get a new home warranty period that varies from 12 months to 24 months in some cases. I will do a general inspection and provide a list of issues that could then be given to the homebuilder to repair. Most homeowners are too busy to keep tabs of all the issues they may have in their house. I will take care of that for you.
What does a home inspection include?
A comprehensive visual (none intrusive) examination of the house from top to bottom. The inspector examines the hvac system*, the interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, the foundation, basement, appliances, any and all visible structures. (* When weather permits).
Can't I do it myself?
Yes, but even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has been trained for this. An inspector is equally familiar with all the elements of home construction and with the proper installation, maintenance and inter-relationship of those elements. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may lead to a poor assessment.
What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a geographic area, the inspection fee may vary depending upon the size of the house, particular features of the house, age, special structures, etc. However, cost should not be a factor in the decision whether or not to have a home inspection. You should hire someone your comfortable with based on their qualifications and references, or a referral, or just your "gut" feelings.
Can a house "fail" inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is simply an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not a Municipal Code inspection. A property inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house or building, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items will be in need of immediate or near future repair or replacement.
Who is responsible for issues that arise after I close and move in?
This is why it is so important that you have a home inspection. A seller is supposed to disclose any known issues with the home that may affect the buyer. However, they are not always aware of issues that could arise. Therefore, once the property becomes yours so does any issues that arise. An inspector is never liable for issues that arise, because only visible evidence can help us determine if there is a possible issue.
