What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual examination of the home’s major structure, systems, and components that are visible and safely accessible. Standards of practice that outline what should be covered during a general home inspection, as well as what is excluded, should be substantially adhered to by the inspector. Some inspectors may strictly follow the standards of practice, while others may exceed the standards and inspect other items, or perform a more detailed inspection. Discuss the scope of work prior to the inspection, whatever the inspector includes in his or her inspection. The inspector should be able to provide you with a copy or online link to the standards of practice they follow.
The inspector should provide you with a written report, which may include photos and/or recommendations, of his or her findings of the inspection. Find out what is included and excluded in a home inspection by reading TREC’s SOP. (this is the minimum, we ALWAYS go above the TREC SOP and deliver more)
Why should I get a home inspection?
Buying a home is typically the biggest investment you will ever make, so it’s important to get a home inspection because the inspector should be able to discover and document defects that may or may not be obvious to you as a prospective buyer. Such defects can range from simple replacements or repairs to severe damage or safety and health concerns. Additionally, most mortgage companies require a home inspection on a property before approving the home loan.
Where can I find a home inspector in my area?
There are several ways to find a home inspector. You may be able to find one online or in local ads. You may also find inspectors’ brochures by visiting a real estate office. There is no single method that is superior when it comes to finding an inspector who’s right for your inspection needs. If you are locally located near Dallas, Fort Worth, Texas you can contact us at (469) 405-9594.
How can I be sure that a home inspector is qualified?
It is important to choose a home inspector who is qualified and holds a license or certification in the field. Many jurisdictions do not regulate home inspections, meaning that anyone could call themselves a home inspector. However, just because someone performs home inspections doesn’t mean that they’re actually qualified to do so. If you are buying or selling a home in an unregulated jurisdiction, make sure to look for a home inspector with the proper certifications. If you are located in a state or province that does require licensing of home inspectors, you should hire only a licensed professional.
Find out whether your state licenses home inspectors and what qualifications they’re required to have by contacting them by phone or online.. License numbers in licensing states may vary in appearance, but you should be able to independently verify it. If your state doesn’t require licensing, find out what qualifications and certifications your home inspector has. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors – InterNACHI®– is the largest and most trusted home inspector association in the world. Its members undergo rigorous training to become Certified Professional Inspectors (CPIs)®. They also follow Standards of Practice and adhere to a Code of Ethics. “One can find information on us here in the licensed state of Texas. How much does a home inspection cost?
Someone will vary the cost of a home inspection based on the inspector, the local market, the geographic region, the scope of the inspection to be performed, and more. You should find out what will be included in the inspection and what won’t before the inspection, and these details should also be outlined in the inspection agreement that you will need to sign prior to the inspection. click here for pricing.
How long does a home inspection take?
Depending on the home’s age, size, and location, as well as the home inspector’s own work protocols and ethics, your home inspection may take up to three hours. Adding square footage, outbuildings, and/or ancillary services (such as mold or radon testing) will increase that time. It may be necessary for your inspector to bring in a helper for a very large property.
At what point in the real estate transaction should I schedule a home inspection?
A home inspection is usually scheduled after an offer has been made and accepted but before the closing date. That way, the inspector can rule out any major defects that could be dangerous or costly. The closing date can sometimes be scheduled after the inspection due to timing or contractual issues. If this is the case, the home buyer should schedule the inspection for the earliest possible date after closing.
Should I be present for the inspection?
You should attend the inspection and you should reconsider hiring an inspector who doesn’t allow this. Learn a lot by following an inspector through the home. You will certainly gain a better understanding of the home’s condition, which will give you insight into its potential sale points and defects. Additionally, you will likely learn information about the home’s maintenance, systems, and components that may provide useful for the transaction.
Can the home inspector also repair any defects he or she finds?
What if your home inspector is also a licensed contractor? Sounds great, right? Not always. Although it may seem convenient to have an inspector who is also a contractor, it poses a conflict of interest. According to InterNACHI’s Code of Ethics: ( same as TREC) The InterNACHI member shall not perform or offer to perform, for an additional fee, any repairs or associated services to the structure for which the member or member’s company has prepared a home inspection report for a period of 12 months. Components and/or systems not included in the InterNACHI Standards of Practice shall not be included in this provision. If an inspector financially benefits from finding any defects, this can impact the accuracy of the report (whether intentional or not). Make sure the inspector you hire abides by a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
What happens if the inspection reveals problems?
If your home inspection reveals any problems, it is important to understand the severity of the defect. Easily fix a missing shingle or dirty air filter at a low cost. However, if the defect is more extreme, such as a major foundation crack, wood-destroying organism infestation, or evidence of mold, you should find out how these problems can be addressed. and whether you can negotiate their cost with the seller. Determine after you move in if your home has a severe defect that your InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector® did not report, you should check to see if he or she participates in InterNACHI’s “We’ll Buy Your Home Back” Guarantee. ( We Do)
What is the Buy-Back Guarantee and how does it work?
If your InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector® participates in the Buy-Back Guarantee, InterNACHI® will buy your home back if the inspector misses something on your inspection. Determine after you move in if your home has a severe defect that your InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector® did not report. A licensed real estate agent must list the home for sale. The Guarantee excludes homes with material defects not present at the time of the inspection, or not required to be inspected, per InterNACHI’s Residential Standards of Practice. 90 days after closing, they will honor the Guarantee. InterNACHI will pay whatever price you paid for the home.
We perform home inspections all across
North Texas Including, Dallas, Rockwall, Kaufman, and Colin counties.
Level Up Home Inspections Call us today! (469) 405-9594
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