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Home Inspection

August 28th, 2023 9:46 AM by Sam Kader MLO130505

Ten Important Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector 

1. What does your inspection cover?

 A home inspection will cover the home's structure, construction and mechanical systems. It will identify any items that need repaired or replaced and estimate the remaining life on major systems such as electrical and plumbing. The inspection begin outside to get a study of the entire house including roof, siding, exterior doors and windows. Check grading of the house for drainage issues and test to see if the gutters are in place and working. The inspector will check the framing and look for any signs of leaks. The inspector should ensure that their inspection and inspection report will meet all applicable requirements in your state if applicable and will comply with a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. You should be able to request and see a copy of these items ahead of time and ask any questions you may have. If there are any areas you want to make sure are inspected, be sure to identify them upfront. Inspection reports usually do not cover small or cosmetic items that would be considered readily apparent to buyers such as missing knob from a cabinet or scratches in a hardwood floor.

2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?

The inspector should be able to provide his or her history in the profession and perhaps even a few names as referrals. Newer inspectors can be very qualified, and many work with a partner or have access to more experienced inspectors to assist them in the inspection.

3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?

 Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful, but is no substitute for training and experience in the unique discipline of home inspection. If the inspection is for a commercial property, then this should be asked about as well.

4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?

Some inspector associations and state regulations allow the inspector to perform repair work on problems uncovered in the inspection. Other associations and regulations strictly forbid this as a conflict of interest.

5. How long will the inspection take?

 Ensure that the inspector takes his time during inspection (expect for at least 1 hour of inspection time).  The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is two to three hours for a typical single-family house; anything significantly less may not be enough time to perform a thorough inspection. Additional inspectors may be brought in for very large properties and buildings. 

6. How much will it cost?

 Costs vary dramatically, depending on the region, size and age of the house, scope of services and other factors. A typical range might be $300-$500. Home inspection here in Puget Sound area start at $325 and up depending on the size, age and style of the home. Cost does not necessarily reflect quality. HUD Does not regulate home inspection fees.

7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?

Ask to see samples and determine whether or not you can understand the inspector's reporting style and if the time parameters fulfill your needs. Most inspectors provide their full report within 24 hours of the inspection.

8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?

 This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector's refusal to allow this should raise a red flag. Never pass up this opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.

9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?

There are many state and national associations for home inspectors. Request to see their membership ID, and perform whatever due diligence you deem appropriate. Home inspectors are licensed through Washington state's Home Inspector advisory Licensing Board. Ask for references, check credentials and valid license

Ask seller to leave and advise seller that buyer will attend the inspection.  

10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?
One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of his or her professionalism and service to the consumer. This is especially important in cases where the home is much older or includes unique elements requiring additional or updated training.



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