What To Ask Your Home Inspector

If you have not bought a home recently, you may not familiar with todays's home-inspection process. Here are some important questions and answers to concider:

1. Why do I need a home inspections?
Home inspection allows you to determine through expert examination whether there are flaws or problems in a home you are about to purchase. A smart buyer will always consider a home inspection contingency in their home purchase offer.
2.When do I call a home inspection? As soon as you have a signed purchase offer on a home, call to schedule a professional home inspection. Your purchase agreement may specify an inspection deadline.
3. What does a home inspector check in a home?
The inspection will cover the conditiona of the home's teating system, Central Air Conditioning system, plumbing and elevtrical systems, roof, attic and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, foundation, basement and structural components.
4. What issues will a home inspection not cover?
If yo have concerns about lead, radon, mold, asbestos or other issues, be prepared to hire a separate specialty-licensed inspector who inspects for these issues. Your general home inspector can recommend local professionals.
5. How do I find a qualified home inspector? consider and inspector that is member of ASHI -the American Society of Home Inspectors. Visit their website at www.TinyURL.com/FindAnInspector. Depending on local ordinances, your inspector may need to be licensed.
6.Will I be able to attend the inspection? It's a good idea to shadow your inspector and ask questions along the way to learn more about the home.
7. How long will a home inspection take?
A home inspection can run two to three hours, but varies depending on home size, complexity and characteristics.
8.What will the inspection cost? Home inspection costs vary widely, but be prepared to budget several hundred dollars for a thorough inspection.
9.What type of inspection report do inspectors provide and will I get a copy?
Prior to inspection, ask to see other inspection reports to get a feel for style, thoroughness and terminology. Many inspectors provide reports within 24 hours of inspection.
10. What if the inspector finds problems with the home that need to be fixed?
Your Real Estate agent should advise you whether the home seller should make the repairs before purchase or be asked for a monetary credit to fix repairs after you move in. the home inspection clause in your home purchase contract may allow you to cancel the purchase and find another home to buy if the home repairs are serious or expensive and you do not want to take on the responsibility of that home.