Q: What is an"INSPECTION"?

A: An inspection is an objective visual examination of thephysical structure and systems, from the roof to the foundation. Thestandard inspector's report will include an evaluation of the conditionof the structures heating system, central air conditioning system,plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visibleinsulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; foundation,visible structure and site conditions. Having an inspection is likegiving it a physical check-up. If defects or symptoms are found, theinspector will refer you to the appropriate specialist and ortradesperson for further assessment.

Q: Why you should choose to have a Professional Inspection? 

A: We cannot emphasize enough the value and necessity of aprofessional inspection. Many purchasers, either in the desire to savemoney that a good inspection costs, or due to simple ignorance, havespent enormous sums of money repairing items that any good homeinspector would have pointed out. Any offer to purchase you make shouldbe contingent upon a professional inspection with a satisfactoryreport. Do not let anyone, not your family or friends, and especiallynot the seller or builders discourage you from having the propertythoroughly inspected! You will sleep much sounder after your purchaseand a professional inspection can give you the ability to opt out of acontract if the property is found defective. If the contract is writtencontingent on an acceptable inspection, any defects in the structuremust be either repaired or monetarily compensated for. If you are notsatisfied, you have the option to cancel the contract. Don't wait untilyou have placed an offer before you begin the search for a homeinspector. There will be an option time limit in the contractdesignating when the inspection must be completed (typically within 7to 10 days). If you start trying to find an inspector at that point,and may not find an acceptable one to schedule it in the necessary timeframe, you will only have two choices: go with an inspector that is notyour first choice, or run the risk of running past the deadline for theinspection (which could void any chance of having the seller take careof repairs). Neither is an acceptable alternative!

Q: Why do I need an inspection?

A: The purchase of any property is probably the largest singleinvestment you will ever make. You should learn as much as you canabout the condition of the property and the need for any major repairsbefore you buy so that you can minimize unpleasant surprises anddifficulties afterwards. Of course, an inspection will also point outthe positive aspects of a structure, as well as the maintenance thatwill be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, youwill have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about topurchase, and will be able to make a confident buying decision.

Owners: If you have owned yourhome for a long time, a home inspection can identify problems in themaking and recommend preventive measures which might avoid costlyfuture repairs. Sellers: home sellers may opt for having an inspectionprior to placing the home on the market to gain a better understandingof conditions which the buyer’s inspector may point out. This providesan opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in betterselling condition and it can be used as a marketing tool.

Q: Do I need a Home Inspector or a Structural Engineer?

A: Your home inspector gives you the Big Picture analysis ofthe house you are purchasing. If the home inspector identifies the needfor a costly, detailed analysis of any of the houses' systems orstructures, the inspector will recommend the appropriate professional,which may be an experienced engineer with expertise analyzing thatparticular system or structure. The need for this kind of expensive,detailed analysis is rare.

Hiring a Professional Engineer on your own can be adisappointing experience. The term Professional Engineer does not meanthat the individual has training or experience conducting homeinspections. Additionally, a home inspection does not involveengineering analysis. Therefore, hiring a Professional Engineer tocomplete a home inspection undoubtedly costs more, but it may not giveyou the results you desire and deserve. 

Q: What will it cost?

A: The inspection fee for a typical single family residenceand commercial property varies. The inspection fee will depend upon thesize of the house, particular features of the house, its age, andpossible additional services, such as swimming pools, spas, sprinklersystems or septic systems or the many other services offered. However,do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a homeinspection, or in the selection of your inspector. The knowledge gainedfrom an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest pricedinspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's qualifications,including his experience, training, and professional affiliations,should be the most important consideration.

Consider this fact, the average real estate commission is 5%to 7%. The average home inspection costs is between 0.140 % to 0.175%.

Q: Can't I do it myself?

A: Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledgeand expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected hundreds,perhaps thousands, of homes in his or her career. An inspector isfamiliar with all the elements of construction, their properinstallation, and maintenance and the science of buildings. He or sheunderstands how the buildings systems and components are intended tofunction together, as well as how and why they fail. Above all, mostbuyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective andunemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect theirjudgment. For the most accurate picture, it is best to obtain animpartial third party opinion by an expert in the field of homeinspection.

Q: Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?

A: Absolutely. A professionalinspection of a new home is important. We can spot potentialproblems early, while they are still easy to correct. It's especiallyvaluable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls arefinished. As building professionals, we may find problem areas wherethe builder has taken shortcuts or not done good work.

Q: Can a building or home fail inspection?

A: No. A professional inspection is an examination of thecurrent condition of your prospective purchase. It is not an appraisal,which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, whichverifies local code compliance. An inspector, therefore, will not passor fail a building or a house, but rather describe its physicalcondition and indicate what may need repair or replacement.

Q: How do I find a home inspector?

A: The best source is a friend, or perhaps a businessacquaintance, who has been satisfied with, and can recommend, ainspector they have used. Real Estate Attorneys are another good sourceas well as Realtors, agents are generally familiar with the service,and should be able to provide you with a list of names from which tochoose. Whatever your referral source, be sure to ascertain the homeinspector's professional qualifications, experience, business ethicsand above all licensing with the Stateof Florida. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulationsmandated on July 1, 2010 that all home inspectors in thestate will need to be licensed and insured by July 1, 2011. Licensurewill include carrying General Liability Insurance and a criminalbackground check as well as fingerprinting.

Also be sure your inspector is a member of an accredited,reputable inspection association like NACHI, ASHI or FABI.These organizations should also have rigorous membership and continuingeducation requirements to assure consumers of an inspector's experienceand technical qualifications. Above all askthe company “who” is my inspector and what their personal background isand are they licensed. Don’t be fooled by theinspection company owned by a person with a wealth of knowledge andthen send out a person with limited construction or inspectionbackground. It takes years to learn this business and you do it byfield experience not by a simple on line course.Be sure your inspection report is written in a narrative format withdigital photos. Do not rely on a simple check list format type report.

Q: When do I call the inspector? 

A: An inspector is typically called right after the contractor purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within afew days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspectionclause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent uponthe findings of a professional inspection. This clause should specifythe terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Q: Do I have to be there? 

A: It’s not necessary for you to be present for theinspection, but it is recommended. By following the inspector aroundand by observing and asking questions, you will learn a great dealabout the condition of the building, how its systems work, and how tomaintain it. You will also find the written report easier to understandif you’ve seen the property first hand through the inspector’s eyes.

Q: What if the report reveals problems? 

A: No building is perfect. If the inspector finds problems, itdoesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t go through with the purchase,only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may beflexible with the purchase price or contract terms if major problemsare found. If your budget is very tight, or if you don’t wish to becomeinvolved in future repair work, this information will be extremelyimportant to you.

Q: What if I find problems after I move into my new home? 

A: A home inspection is not a guarantee that problems won'tdevelop after you move in. However if you believe that a problem wasalready visible at the time of the inspection and should have beenmentioned in the report, your first step should be to call and meetwith the inspector to clarify the situation. Misunderstandings areoften resolved in this manner. If necessary, you might wish to consultwith a local mediation service to help you settle your disagreement.Though many inspectors today carry Errors & Omissions liabilityinsurance, litigation should be considered a last resort. It isdifficult, expensive, and by no means a sure method of recovery.

Q: If the house or building proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection? 

A: Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase withpeace of mind about the condition of the property and all its equipmentand systems. You will also have learned a few things about the propertyfrom the inspector's report, and will want to keep that information forfuture reference. Above all, you can feel assured that you are making awell informed purchase decision, and that you will be able to enjoyyour investment the way you want to.

Call 239-936-7579 or simply [Order an Inspection] on-line.