1. Do I really need a home inspection?
Although it may not seem like a difficult thing to do, home inspectors have years of specialized experience that allows them to properly evaluate the condition of a home. They will see the things that you miss. For that reason, it’s always recommended to get a home inspection before purchasing a home, no matter how flawless it may seem to you.
2. How much does it cost?
This varies wildly. Some inspectors pride themselves on being cheap while others are more concerned with quality. The best thing you can do when shopping around for a home inspector is to go by reputation and experience rather than cost. Going cheap won’t always save you money in the long run if you don’t get a quality inspection. By the same token, just because an inspector charges a high price doesn’t mean they’re the best around. Just push cost out of your mind and focus on more objective indicators of quality.
3. Should I be present for the inspection?
You aren’t required to be there during the inspection, but it’s better if you are. A home inspection is about giving you the information you need to make a wise purchasing decision. It’s much easier to understand and absorb this information if you’re present to see the process and ask questions. Some people are worried that they’ll annoy the inspector with their countless questions, but most inspectors welcome questions as they want you to be as informed as possible. That said, if you absolutely can’t be present you’ll still receive a detailed inspection report to consult.
4. Do new homes need an inspection?
Whether you’re buying a house that’s 50 years old or 5 months old, you need a home inspection. It’s true that older houses can have more issues than newer houses, but even brand new homes can be hiding some serious issues. Mold from damp construction conditions. Poorly installed ventilation. Don’t leave anything to chance, always get a home inspection before you buy a house.
5. Can a house “fail” an inspection?
Generally, houses can’t fail inspections. Inspections are just unbiased evaluations of the quality of a house. What you do with that information is ultimately up to you. An issue that may be a deal breaker for someone without the time or money to get it fixed may present an opportunity for someone who loves a fixer-upper. That said, there are certain issues that may cause difficulty when shopping for homeowner’s insurance, but those types of things are usually dealt with by 4-point inspections.
When it comes time to buy a home there is no such thing as a guarantee of quality, not without a comprehensive inspection anyway. Please, contact us at Super Inspection Pros. today to learn more about our home inspection process or to schedule an inspection of your home. You can find more information about our services on our website.
