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Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ
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Q) What is a home inspection?
A) A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure
and systems of a home, from roof to foundation. A home inspection is the equivalent
of a physical examination from your doctor. When problems or symptoms of problems
are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation or remedies.
Q) What does a home inspection include?
A) A standard home inspection summarizes findings from a visual inspection
of the condition of the subject home’s heating system, central air conditioning
system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; roof,
attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; foundation,
basement and structure.
Q) Why do I need a home inspection?
A) A home inspection summarizes the condition of a property, points out the
need for major repairs and identifies areas that may need attention in the near
future. Buyers and sellers depend on an accurate home inspection to maximize
their knowledge of the property in order to make intelligent decisions before
executing an agreement for sale or purchase.
For homeowners, an inspection may be used to identify problems in the making
and to learn about preventive measures, which might avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, an inspection prior to placing your home
on the market provides a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered
by the buyer's inspector, and provides you an opportunity to make repairs that
will make your home more desirable to potential buyers.
Q) What will it cost?
A) Coastal Inspection Services charges $345 for a standard inspection for a
home, townhome or mobile home up to 2500 square feet, with detached carports
and garages included. Fees for a standard inspection of a single condo is $245.
Additional square footage rates are $50 for every additional 500 sq. ft. Outbuildings,
mileage and age of the dwelling may require an additional fee. Please phone
1-250-391-6645 or toll free 1-877-262-7850 for a quote.
Do not let the cost deter you from having a home inspection or selecting an
inspector you are comfortable with. Knowledge gained from an inspection is well
worth the time and expense. The lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a
bargain. The inspector's qualifications, including experience, training, and
professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration in your
selection.
Q) Can’t I do it myself?
A) Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of
a professional home inspector. A professional home inspector has the experience,
depth of knowledge and training to make an unbiased and informed report of the
condition of a property. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of
home construction, proper installation and maintenance. An inspector understands
how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as
well as how and why they fail and knows what to look for and is uniquely suited
to interpret what their findings reveal about the condition of the property.
Most buyers find it difficult to remain objective and unemotional about the
house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate
information about the condition of a home, always obtain an impartial third-party
opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.
Q) Can a house fail a home inspection?
A) No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition
of your home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal
inspection, which verifies compliance to local codes and standards. A home inspector
will not pass or fail a house. A home inspection describes the physical condition
of a property and indicates what may need repair or replacement.
Q) When do I call in the home inspector?
A) Before you sign the contract or purchase agreement, make your purchase obligation
contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause
should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated. Contact
a home inspector immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been
signed. Coastal Inspection Services is aware of the time constraints involved
in purchase agreements and will be available to conduct the required inspection
as soon as possible.
Q) Do I have to be there?
A) While it is not necessary for you to be present, it is always recommended
that you make time to join the inspector for their visit. This allows you to
observe the inspector, ask questions as you learn about the condition of the
home, how its systems work, and how to maintain them. After you have seen the
property with the inspector, you will find the written report easier to understand.
Q) What if the report reveals problems?
A) No house is perfect. When the inspector identifies problems, it does not
indicate you should not buy the house. His findings serve to educate you in
advance of the purchase about the condition of the property. A seller may adjust
the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are discovered during
an inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved
in future repair work, this information will be extremely valuable.
Q) If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
A) Yes. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence about the condition
of the property and all its equipment and systems. From the inspection, you
will have learned many things about your new home, and will want to keep that
information for future reference.
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