A home inspection, sometimes called a property inspection or building inspection, is a thorough visual examination of a home that is performed by a Certified Professional Inspector at a specific point in time. The inspection is non-invasive, performed for a fee, and is designed to identify material defects within specific components of a home or property. These components may include any combination of mechanical, structural, electrical, plumbing, or other essential systems or portions of the home, as identified and agreed to by the Client and Inspector, prior to the inspection process. Homes may be inspected for a variety of reasons but in many cases a home is inspected before a home is sold to reveal any defects that may be problematic for the buyer. A typical home inspection will include a complete walk-through of the house in which the condition of the home is closely examined, any deficiencies or defects are noted, and recommendations for repairs are made. The home inspection is intended to assist in the evaluation of the overall condition of the home, at the time of the inspection, and is not a prediction of future conditions.
The Home Inspection Process
A typical home inspection will take between 2 and 3 hours to complete. During this time the home will be thoroughly examined from the exterior to the interior. A home inspection should include observations and, when acceptable, operation of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and appliance systems. In addition a good home inspection should document the condition of structural components, roofing, foundation, exterior and interior walls, doors, windows, and chimneys. After completion of the home inspection a comprehensive inspection report should be provided that documents the condition of the home and indicates existing material defects or problems that were visually observed by the home inspector.
A comprehensive home inspection is very important when purchasing a home. Buying a home is one the largest investments that many people make, but very few home buyers are experienced in building construction, and overlooking a serious material defect could be very costly down the road. Because of this, many buyers elect to have the home inspected prior to closing the sale. This will document any defects that may be discussed with the seller during negotiations.
Maggiore Inspections encourages our clients to accompany us during the home inspection. This gives our clients a chance to ask questions, receive maintenance information about the home and its major systems, and allows a home buyer to get the most from a home inspection. Schedule your home inspection with us today.