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WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?
The purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the largest single investments you will ever make. You should know exactly what to expect - both indoors and out - in terms of needed and future repairs and maintenance.  A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic roof leakage problem, or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector interprets these and other clues, and then presents a professional opinion as to the condition of the property so you can avoid unpleasant surprises afterward.  Of course, our inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a building, as well as the type of maintenance needed to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase, and be able to make your decision confidently.

As a seller, if you have owned your property for a period of time, an inspection can help identify potential problems and recommend preventive measures, which might avoid future expensive repairs. There is no such thing as a home that is too new or too well built to benefit from a professional inspection.

Anyone advising against an inspection is doing a disservice to the buyer. Many problems frequently encountered after the buyer moves in are a routine discovery for a qualified home inspector.

CAN I INSPECT THE BUILDING MYSELF?
Even the most experienced building or homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected hundreds, and perhaps thousands of homes and buildings in their career. An inspector is equally familiar with the critical elements of construction and with the proper installation, maintenance and inter-relationships of these elements. Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the building they really want, and this may lead to a poor assessment.

CAN A HOUSE "FAIL" INSPECTION?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector will not "pass" or "fail" a house, but will accurately describe its physical condition and indicate needed repairs and/or replacement.

WHAT DOES AN INSPECTION INCLUDE?
A includes a visual examination of the building from top to bottom. The inspector evaluates and reports the condition of the structure, roof, foundation, drainage, plumbing, heating system, central air-conditioning system, visible insulation, walls, windows, and doors. Only those items that are visible and accessible by normal means are included in the report.

WHEN DO I REQUEST AN INSPECTOR?
The best time to consult the inspector is right after you’ve made an offer on your new home. The real estate contract usually allows for a grace period to inspect the building. Ask your professional agent to include this inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection.

IS AN INSPECTION A CODE COMPLIANCE INSPECTION?
No. A professional inspection is simply an examination of the buildings current condition. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection.

WHAT WILL THE INSPECTION COST?
Generally fees for an inspection on a single family home are in the $250 to $375 range and may vary depending upon the size of the building, particular features of the building, age, type of structure, etc. However, the cost should not be a factor in the decision whether or not to have a physical inspection. You might save many times the cost of the inspection if you are able to have the seller perform repairs based on significant problems revealed by the inspector. Consult your professional agent for guidance.

SHOULD I ATTEND THE INSPECTION?
Although it is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection it is a good idea and we welcome you to accompany us. By following the inspector through the inspection, observing and asking questions, you will learn about the new building and get some tips on general maintenance. This information will be of great help to you after you move in.