I have known John Miller of HSI for
approximately 10 years. His inspections have always been thorough, fair
and full of tips for the new homeowner.
Norma Santana
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual evaluation of the physical structure and systems of a home. It allows you the opportunity to learn as much about the home as possible from a third party not involved in the sales transaction. If major issues are identified, it allows you the opportunity to negotiate with the seller of the property prior to purchasing the home. The home inspection also identifies positive aspects about the home and provides you with maintenance tips to help keep your home in good condition.
What does a home inspection include?
The home inspection report will include an evaluation of the visible structure; roof; exterior; deck/porch/sunroom attachments; interior plumbing and electrical systems; heating/air conditioning systems and ductwork; interior (walls/ceilings/windows); attic; insulation and ventilation; foundation; fireplaces and solid fuel burning appliances. Carpet, wallpaper and interior paint are considered cosmetic issues and are not evaluated as part of the home inspection.
Why do I need a home inspection?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will make in your lifetime. Although a home inspection cannot eliminate your risk, it can greatly reduce your risk by uncovering structural and mechanical deficiencies, potential safety hazards and items in need of repair prior to your acquisition of the home. Having a professional home inspection conducted on the home you are about to purchase can save you thousands of dollars!
Do I need to attend the inspection?
We encourage all of our clients to attend the inspection and to follow the inspector throughout the inspection process. The inspection is a valuable time to gather information and to see the home through your’ inspector’s eyes. The home inspection also provides you the opportunity to ask questions and to receive maintenance tips on how to keep your home in good condition. Although the home inspection report is very thorough and easy to understand, there is no substitute for “seeing” the issues yourself.
How long will the home inspection take?
This depends on the size, age of the home and the services we are providing. Generally, a typical home inspection (2500-3000 sq. ft) will last approximately 3 hrs., with the exception of townhomes and condos. Older homes, moisture inspections on EIFS cladding, crawlspaces and foreclosure properties may require additional time depending on the conditions found. There is no additional charge if extra time is required at the home.
Should I have my home inspected, if I’m purchasing new construction?
Several of the problems that are identified during a resale inspection, have been there since construction. In most instances, these issues could have been identified and repaired by your builder. New construction inspections will also identify State and municipal codes that may not have been met during the construction of the home. One of the best times to inspect a home is prior to the installation of sheetrock. Structural defects can be identified and repaired and the rough-in plumbing, electrical and hvac ductwork evaluated.
What is the cost of a home inspection?
The cost of the inspection is determined from several factors: age; exterior cladding; structure (slab, crawlspace or basement / ranch, split-level or two-story); # of bedrooms/bathrooms; approximate square footage; foreclosure and location. In general, the cost ranges from $300-$500, but can be higher depending on the size of the home and the services we are providing. The price of the home inspection should not be your main focus, but rather the thoroughness, credentials and past experience of your home inspector!