FAQ
» What does the home inspection include? (opens About Report page)» Is my home up to code?
» How do I prepare my home for an inspection?
» What is the inspection procedure?
» Why should I order a presale inspection?
» How much money will it cost for repairs? (opens Cost Guide page)
Is my home up to code?
Many people have the misconception that if items are not listed in the report as "faulty" that the component or system must be "up to code". Homes built before various code revisions are not obligated to meet the most current version of newer building codes. Further complicating matters municipalities may add their own requirements, which are usually more stringent and change over time. Even the most qualified inspectors (I.C.B.O. Certified Building Inspector) will shy away from citing code requirement chapter and section. They are (usually) not currently working with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction and may not be up to date on a particular community's latest change.
There are codes for each of the specialized trades such as the National Electrical Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code and the Uniform Building Code. Building codes set forth a minimum standard for compliance. Your home inspector's primary interest is for occupant safety, he may cite an item that met code at one time but is now considered unsafe and sub-standard. Typical examples would be "non-grounded outlets", stair systems without handrails or inadequate foundation bolting.
How do I prepare my home for an inspection?
We appreciate you helping us to provide a very thorough inspection. If possible, help us by:
• Making sure all utilities, including electrical power, gas and water, are turned on.
• Having keys available for doors, gates, electrical compartments, etc.
• Asking the present occupants to move any property obstructing access to attic openings, electrical panels, etc. Electrical panels, attic and sub-floor access openings are often located in closets. If clothes can be moved from these areas it would be appreciated.
• Arranging for someone to secure the property when we are finished.
Please Note: There will be an additional fee if you want us to return to the property to examine areas that were inaccessible.
What is the inspection procedure?
Our goal is to provide our clients with an accurate, unbiased, inspection report. We will make every effort to provide professional services of the highest quality. Our reports exceed the Standards of Practice of the state (CREIA) and the national (ASHI) professional organization. Our inspector is an experienced ICBO Certified Inspector, the largest and most respected in the inspection industry.
Our inspection is representative in nature and does not include an examination of every cabinet, doorknob, light switch, component, fixture, door or window. We depend on being able to see the home and its systems to evaluate it, as our inspection is primarily visual. Our procedure requires that we have an unobstructed view of all areas to be inspected. We cannot determine the condition of any components hidden from view. If there is excessive property in the home we will be unable to perform an adequate inspection.
We are not building code officials and cannot determine which requirements may be enforced by the jurisdiction having authority. Your inspector may recommend that professionals such as a structural engineer, licensed pest inspector, or others provide further assistance. You may wish to get additional services from other specialized persons either, during, before or after our inspection.
Why should I order a presale inspection?
Times are changing and many experienced home sellers and their Real Estate agents recognize the value in negotiating from a position of knowledge is always an advantage. People often live in their home for years, even decades and are absolutely certain they know their house and all its flaws; this is seldom true in our experience. An experienced home inspector sees a property from an objective perspective with years of construction knowledge, specialized defect recognition training and practical experience. A pre-sale inspection can protect the seller from serious problems that result from non-disclosure.
Addressing the faulty items through active acknowledgement is encouraging to buyers as they likely to perceive the sellers as forthright. Almost all homes have defects that the buyer will want repaired. Fear of those unknown costs will almost certainly lead to last minute negotiation. Knowing the condition of the home prior to marketing it gives the seller an opportunity to address those defects in the way they choose. A key advantage is flexibility in how best to respond to various repair issues given the specific circumstance of the seller. They may choose to repair the items, some of the items or none of the items. And get contractors of their choosing to provide legitimate estimates for repairs.
When the seller has an accurate and unbiased assessment of the home and its condition, they are more likely to price it effectively and receive realistic offers. The insight provided by a presale inspection significantly reduces the chances of the deal to falling apart during final inspection.
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