What to Expect from a Home Inspection

With experts anticipating another year of competitive home sales, buyers and sellers are increasingly utilizing the service of a qualified home inspector. Yet those who retain a home inspector are wise to educate themselves on what to expect... and not expect... from a home inspection.

A home inspector is a generalist who is trained to identify visible existing conditions in a wide variety of systems within the home or building. They are not acting as specialists in all of the different disciplines that go into the construction and maintenance of a home. A qualified inspector should be able to identify issues and apply an educated judgement as to the severity of the problem and then, recommend further evaluation by a professional contractor or licensed entity.

At National Property Inspections, we feel consumers should view a home inspector in the same manner they would a doctor or dentist. Like a general practitioner examining a patient, the home inspector examines the home to assess its condition and health and depends on his training and experience. If a serious problem is discovered, the inspector brings this to the attention of the customer and may recommend a specialist. As in consulting a doctor, the client should look to hire someone with the proper qualifications and demonstrated experience.

At National Property Inspections, we feel buyers or sellers should be aware of the following when having a home inspected:

• Discuss with the inspector in advance what is included in the inspection and what style of report is produced.
• Bring specific questions or concerns to the inspector's attention prior to the inspection.
• Expect receipt of computerized report with a detailed summary.
• Expect to receive an accurate overview of the home at the time of the inspection. The home inspector's role is to report the home's condition and to alert the client as to major visible defects, not to predict future conditions.
• Be present at the inspection to ask questions and to view the inspection process, since it can provide a valuable learning experience.
• Back up the inspection with a satisfaction guarantee and limit warranty; a document that is provided at the conclusion of every NPI inspection.

We feel the home inspector should take as much time as is necessary to cover the following areas:

• Exterior - Drainage conditions, exterior surfaces, decks, patios, and chimneys are examined.
• Roof - The condition of roofing materials and flashings are examined.
• Interior - Windows, doors and the plumbing fixtures are tested and checked for operation and leaks. All major electrical and mechanical systems are examined for correct installation and operation; the air conditioner is tested when possible. Electrical outlets and switches are randomly checked for correct polarity and operation. All appliances are tested for leaks and operation.
  
• Crawl Space / Attic - These areas are examined for structural condition. Insulation, Ventilation, Electrical, heating and plumbing systems are inspected if present. Moisture issues are identified and checked for mold or air quality concerns if needed.