Home inspections are a visual analysis of the main areas and
systems of the house or home, conducted by a trained, certified, licensed
and objective home inspector, and is an important step in the home-buying
process. Not only will the inspector, identify non-functioning, damaged
systems and components where safety concerns may exist, but also can
re-enforce where quality work has been completed. Home inspections are one
of the most effective ways to insure that you are not only making a sound
financial investment; but also a sound structural investment. Home
inspections are top to bottom, from the landscaping to the roof, into the
attic, through each room and living space down to the basement, inside and
out and all around your new property, and should be conducted according to
the stringent Standards of Practice of the National Association of Certified
Home Inspectors (NACHI). All home inspections should be done by experienced,
qualified and licensed inspectors.
Home Inspectors usually offer a variety of services beyond home
inspections, such as termite inspections, radon testing, water testing, lead
testing, asbestos inspections, mold inspection and testing. Some inspectors
offer a free limited warranty and we are available to re-inspect after
repairs so you can be sure standards are met. Some inspectors are
contractors, some have no affiliations with contractors or real estate
companies, and some make repairs or offer remodeling services. Most
inspectors provide professional, timely, and easy to interpret inspection
reports.
Our home inspection reports include repair estimates that can help
save over $20,000 on the purchase price of a house. Reports should be easy
to read and easily able to show the seller, documentation of issues needing
to be resolved prior to purchase. Home inspection reports do not describe
the condition of every component if it's in excellent shape, but should note
every item that is defective or needing service, and typically ready within
48 hours from the time of the inspection. Usually reports are prepared at
the office and computer printed, once back at the office the notes are
compiled into the client’s Inspection Report. Inspectors that use quick and
easy to fill out "checklist" reports, or handwritten reports are taking a
big risk. Check list reports are limited, and there is too much information
that can be accidentally omitted if a report is written quickly.
The following is a quick list of some of the main areas of
inspections included in your inspection report: foundation, walls and slab,
structure, exterior siding and trim, roof structure and shingles, gutters
and down spouts, entrance steps, porches and decks, all exterior doors,
chimneys, electrical entrance lines, patios, garages and driveways,
sidewalks, kitchens and appliances, all bathroom toilets, tubs, showers and
sinks, all interior walls, floors, ceilings and stalls, all doors and
windows, lights and outlets, electrical systems, plumbing, visible waste
lines, furnace and air conditioning, hot water heaters, basements, floor
joists, laundries, ceiling fans, fireplaces, attic areas and insulation,
venting, and an estimate of the remaining useful life of the major systems
(such as the roof, hot water heater, heating, air conditioning), equipment,
structure and finishes.
During the inspection your inspector will evaluate the physical
condition of the structure, construction and mechanical systems. Only a
trained and experienced professional home inspector can properly evaluate a
structure and its systems and report its true condition. Many older homes
are >40-50 years old and have systems that may need to be replaced. Newer
homes also need independent inspections to ensure that the major systems are
in good condition. Understanding your home's systems and components are
essential when it comes to purchase, repair and maintenance decisions.
Mr. Kanakis, your home inspector, will answer any questions you may
have and also will provide an orientation of the property to you,the new
potential owner. No concern you may have is too small and the only silly
questions are the ones not asked. You should be present at the home
inspection so you can ask questions and look at areas needing maintenance or
repair. The inspection provides an invaluable learning and discovery
experience during which your questions can be answered on the spot.
Typically, almost 20% of the inspection time is spent answering questions
and serving clients.
Home inspections are becoming an increasingly critical part of the
home buying and selling process. Home inspections are one of the most
effective ways to insure that you are not only making a sound financial
investment; but also a sound structural investment. Real estate
professionals know that professional home inspections are a very important
part of buying and selling homes. You will appreciate the advice, but be
sure and trust your property to only professional, certified home
inspectors. Home inspections are not intended to point out every small
problem or any non-visible defects in a home; home Inspections are important
and necessary for your own protection and future security. That's why home
inspections are a vital tool to avoid any unexpected mishaps.
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