At CTR Home Inspections, we get a lot of great questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about home inspections.
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. 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 the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
A standard home inspectors report will cover the condition of the homes 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 structural components.
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what we cover in our home inspection report.
Our inspection fees vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing. You’ll find that CTR Home Inspection Services are priced fairly and competitively.
Don’t let cost alone be the determining factor in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from a thorough, quality inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. We recommend that you use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state’s regulations, and professional affiliations as a guide.
We recommend that you are present during our inspection. Our clients tell us that they learn a lot about home-ownership during our inspections. So, while it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe our inspection and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesnt mean you should or shouldnt buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you dont want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not 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 components and systems may need major repair or replacement.
Yes, you definitely do need a house inspection when you’re buying any type of house. With your inspection in hand, you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspectors written report, and will have that information for future reference.
Yes, we do. This is a very valuable tool, so you can know and correct issue of your choice before the house goes on the market.
Yes, thank you for your service to our Country. Please ask us about details.
