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 Mike Binaco
Welcome
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Frequently
Asked Questions 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.
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.
HOW DO I FIND A HOME INSPECTOR? The
best source is a friend, or perhaps a business acquaintance, who has been satisfied with
and can recommend a home inspector they have used. In addition, the names of local
inspectors can be found in the Yellow Pages where many advertise under "Building
Inspection Service" or "Home Inspection Service". Real estate agents are
also generally familiar with the service, and should be able to provide you with a list of
names from which to choose. Whatever
your referral source, you will want to make sure that the home inspector is a Member of
the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) in order to be certain of his or her
professional qualifications, experience, and business ethics. A list of ASHI Members in
your area is available upon request from the Association's headquarters. Q.
WHAT IS THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HOME INSPECTORS? 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. Copies of the Standards are available free from ASHI. ASHI's
professional Code of Ethics prohibits Members from engaging in conflict of interest
activities which might compromise their objectivity. This is the consumer's assurance that
the inspector will not, for example, use the inspection to solicit or refer repair work. In
order to assist home inspectors in furthering their education, ASHI sponsors a number of
technical seminars and workshops throughout the year, often in cooperation with one of its
nearly 50 Chapters. ASHI also serves as a public interest group by providing accurate and
helpful consumer information to home buyers on home purchasing and home maintenance. Q.
WHO BELONGS TO ASHI? Members
of ASHI are independent professional home inspectors who 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. ASHI Members are required to follow the Society's Code of
Ethics, and to obtain continuing education credits in order to keep current with the
latest in building technology, materials, and professional skills. 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
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. |
