top
 

blah
Partridge Home Inspections, Inc.

 

Here are a few commonly asked questions about having a home inspection.

 

What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a written report that is generated after the completion of a visual inspection of the property, conducted by a state licensed home inspector. This report will cover the structural systems and foundation, exterior cladding, ventilation, plumbing systems, electrical, central heating, central air conditioning (weather permitting), insulation and fireplaces or other solid fuel burning appliances.

 

Why should I have a Home Inspection?

Buying your home will probably be the most expensive purchase you will ever make in your lifetime. An inspection will convey the condition of the house and most of the appliances and systems. It will identify any major problems or expenses that will need to be addressed. This is your opportunity to have an unbiased evaluation of the home and its systems, specifically for you, the buyer.  Some items/systems may need to be repaired, and safety related items corrected.

 

Can I just do my own Home Inspection?

You can, but only a licensed home inspector can write a report that will stand up in the negotiation process of the real estate contract. You want to have a professional on your side. You will learn much about the house, its maintenance and problems by accompanying your inspector during the inspection.

 

Can a house fail inspection?

All houses will have something wrong with them, but only you can determine if a house fails the inspection. Sometimes the seller will fix the problems discovered and sometimes they will not. It could be a simple as a burned out light bulb, or as major as structural problems. It is always best to know about any concerns and have any safety items corrected prior to closing.

 

When should I call a Home Inspector?

Call for a home inspection after you have a signed contract and it has been approved by both parties. Most contracts will normally allow 5 business days to get ANY inspections you wish to have on the house. Usually, an inspection can be booked with 24-48 hours notice.

 

Do I need to be there?

The physical on-site inspection of the property is a very valuable time of exchange of information between the buyer and the inspector. The written report will not substitute for the buyer's personal presence during the inspection. It is virtually impossible to fully profile any building with any report system. Unless the buyer attends and participates in the inspection process, the buyer will have no chance of gaining all the information that is offered. Almost all buyers find accompanying the inspector an invaluable learning experience. As a result, most are better able to understand the results of the inspection.

 

What if the report shows problems?

Many problems can be solved easily and fairly inexpensively to repair. Any problems that are safety concerns or inhabitability issues should be corrected prior to the final closing, usually at the cost of the seller of the house.

 

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

Yes, an inspection will teach you about the house, where the electrical shutoffs are, the water shut off and the gas shut off. It can also outline maintenance items that need to be addressed to keep the house in good condition and proper upkeep. Remember, there is no warranty on a pre-owned house. Once you purchase the house, any existing problems, will be yours.

Back to Top - Home - About us - Contact