
WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?
A Home Inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical
structure and systems of a home from the roof to the foundation. Having
a home inspected is like giving it a physical check up. If problems or
symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation.
WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you
will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition
of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy, so
that you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards.
After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the
property.
If you are already a home owner, a home inspection may be used to
identify problems in making and to learn preventative measures which
might avoid costly repairs in the future. If you are planning to sell a
home, you may wish to have an inspection performed prior to placing your
home on the market. This will give you a better understanding of
conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector and an
opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling
condition.
WHAT WILL IT COST?
The fee for a typical one family house varies. Our fee depends on the
size of the home, its age and possible additional services, such as mold
testing, termite letter, etc. Contact HOMESPEC and request a quotation.
727-787-2002
CAN I DO IT MYSELF?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of
a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps
thousands of homes in his career. An inspector is equally familiar with
all the elements of home construction and with the proper installation,
maintenance and interrelationship of those elements. Above all, most
buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional
about the home they really want, and this may lead to poor assessment.
Even if you have the knowledge, the home seller allow you to spend hours
opening closets and going and into the attic/crawl spaces?
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
A typical inspection takes an average of 2.5 to 4 hours. However,
larger homes, especially the ones in excess of 5,000 square feet could
take half a day or more. Other factors that influence the time it takes
to complete a home inspection are age of the home, condition of the
home, and the number of questions the client has for the inspector.
CAN A HOUSE FAIL INSPECTION?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the condition of
the home on the day it is inspected. It is not an appraisal, which
determines market value or a municipal inspection, which verifies local
code compliance, but rather describes its visible physical condition and
indicate what may need major repair or replacement now or in the near
future.
DO I HAVE TO BE THERE?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is
highly recommended. You will be able to accompany the inspector and ask
questions directly as you learn about the condition of the home, how its
systems work and how to maintain it. You will also find the written
report easier to understand if you've seen the property firsthand
through the inspector's eyes.
WHO HIRES THE INSPECTOR?
The client usually retains the inspector. The inspector works for you.