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What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. It is important to realize that a home inspection will not eliminate all risk of possible problems! The inspector cannot see through walls and we can't kick holes in walls to see inside! What you get is an educated opinion of the property condition from a professional who works for you.
Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home is probably the largest single investment the average person will ever make. You will want to learn as much as you can about the property in order to minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After an inspection, you will know more about the house, which will you to make decisions with confidence. If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventative measures that may help you avoid costly future repairs. If you are thinking of selling your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put your house in a better selling condition.
What does a home inspection include?
A standard home inspection will cover, at a minimum, the roof, attic and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors; the foundation, basement, crawlspaces, and structural components; interior plumbing and electrical systems; the heating system and air conditioning system (temperature dependent). A visual survey is made of the grounds for rainwater drainage properties.
What if the inspection reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If problems are identified in the inspection report, that does not mean you should or should not buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. Consult with your realtor about possible options available to you.
Can a house fail an inspection?
NO! A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of the property. It is not an appraisal, which determines the market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local building code compliance. A home inspection will not pass or fail a house but it will describe the physical condition and indicate those components and systems that may need major repair or replacement.
When do I arrange for an inspection?
Typically, for a buyer, contact the home inspector immediately after the contract or sales agreement is signed. Before you sign, make sure there is an inspection contingency clause in the contract, which should specify the terms and conditions obligating the buyer and seller. For the seller, the inspection should be immediately before the property is placed on the market.
How long does an inspection take?
The time required to make a visual inspection will vary, but typically runs 3-5 hours depending on the size of the property and its condition.
Do I have to be there?
No. You do not have to be present for the inspection but it is highly recommended that you be there. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions. You will gain first-hand knowledge about the condition of the home and pickup pointers on how to maintain it.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a home inspection will vary depending on its size, age, and location. There may be additional charges for included outbuildings, detached garage, or fencing. Environmental tests will add to the cost. Please contact us to discuss your requirements!
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Sure. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You'll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will have that information for future reference.
What if I have questions about the house or the inspection afterwards?
Ask away. VAIS is just a call, fax, or an email away and is proud to offer continuing customer support.
What if I have questions not listed here or I want more details?
Go to our "Contact Us" page, call 540-898-0593, fax (540) 898-0594, or send email to inspectorstu@vainspectionservice.com
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. It is important to realize that a home inspection will not eliminate all risk of possible problems! The inspector cannot see through walls and we can't kick holes in walls to see inside! What you get is an educated opinion of the property condition from a professional who works for you.
Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home is probably the largest single investment the average person will ever make. You will want to learn as much as you can about the property in order to minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After an inspection, you will know more about the house, which will you to make decisions with confidence. If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventative measures that may help you avoid costly future repairs. If you are thinking of selling your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put your house in a better selling condition.
What does a home inspection include?
A standard home inspection will cover, at a minimum, the roof, attic and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors; the foundation, basement, crawlspaces, and structural components; interior plumbing and electrical systems; the heating system and air conditioning system (temperature dependent). A visual survey is made of the grounds for rainwater drainage properties.
What if the inspection reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If problems are identified in the inspection report, that does not mean you should or should not buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. Consult with your realtor about possible options available to you.
Can a house fail an inspection?
NO! A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of the property. It is not an appraisal, which determines the market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local building code compliance. A home inspection will not pass or fail a house but it will describe the physical condition and indicate those components and systems that may need major repair or replacement.
When do I arrange for an inspection?
Typically, for a buyer, contact the home inspector immediately after the contract or sales agreement is signed. Before you sign, make sure there is an inspection contingency clause in the contract, which should specify the terms and conditions obligating the buyer and seller. For the seller, the inspection should be immediately before the property is placed on the market.
How long does an inspection take?
The time required to make a visual inspection will vary, but typically runs 3-5 hours depending on the size of the property and its condition.
Do I have to be there?
No. You do not have to be present for the inspection but it is highly recommended that you be there. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions. You will gain first-hand knowledge about the condition of the home and pickup pointers on how to maintain it.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a home inspection will vary depending on its size, age, and location. There may be additional charges for included outbuildings, detached garage, or fencing. Environmental tests will add to the cost. Please contact us to discuss your requirements!
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Sure. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You'll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will have that information for future reference.
What if I have questions about the house or the inspection afterwards?
Ask away. VAIS is just a call, fax, or an email away and is proud to offer continuing customer support.
What if I have questions not listed here or I want more details?
Go to our "Contact Us" page, call 540-898-0593, fax (540) 898-0594, or send email to inspectorstu@vainspectionservice.com
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