Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Why do I need a home inspection?
A. Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
Q. What does a Home inspection include?
A. The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation and structural components.
Q. What is ASHI?
A. Since 1976, ASHI has worked to build consumer awareness of home inspection and to enhance the professionalism of its membership. The ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics serves as a performance guideline for home inspectors, and is universally recognized and accepted by many professional and governmental bodies.
Q. Do I have to be there for the inspection?
A. While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.
Q. What should I expect from your representative?
A. You can expect a friendly, knowledgeable inspector to arrive on time for the appointment. Your inspection will take about 2-3 hours depending on size of the home. Your detailed and professional report will be emailed to you the same day or the following day. After the inspection, you are welcome to call with any follow up questions or concerns you may have.
Q. I am buying a newly constructed home, do I still need an inspection?
A. Newly constructed homes still have their problems and some contractors will take the easy way out to finish a job on time. Because of this, you may have a new home that has many if not more problems than a 30 year old house. New homes are not cheap, don’t spend your hard earned money on a house that will fall apart in the first couple years!!
Q. How much will the inspection cost?
A. N-Spec charges a nominal fee for their professional inspections. The price can vary pending the size of the home, if it has a crawl space, etc. We also offer discounts to Military and first responders (ID required). Give us a call, you will be glad you did!
Q: How long will the inspection take?
A: If an inspector tells you it will only take about an hour or hour and a half, you should immediately have a concern. Most home inspections last 2-3 hours or longer depending on the size and condition of the home. Our inspections are close to the 3+ hour mark. Why so long? Because we want to make sure we cover everything and give you a non-biased inspection to help you feel confident with your home purchasing decision.
Q: What happens after my inspection?
A: We will provide you a detailed report of our findings with pictures to help you understand what the condition of your future home is. The report will be emailed to you typically the same day. But it doesn’t just stop there, if you have any questions about the report or its contents we will be more than happy to explain it to you. We have walked new home buyers through their report line by line to ensure they understand everything we reported. We are also available to answer any questions about the home later down the road or if you just want a second opinion on a service or repair of your home.
Q: What if the inspection reveals several things that are wrong, what should I do?
A: First and foremost don’t panic! No house is perfect. Talk with the inspector and your realtor to determine the most important items to be addressed. The inspectors job is not to kill your dreams or the deal, it is the homes condition and how well it has been maintained determining that. If the inspector finds several things wrong normally (but not always) they are small things that can easily be addressed by yourself or a handyman. An inspectors job is to help you make an educated decision on the home and its purchase.
Q. What is the ASHI Standards of Practice?
A. The purpose of this document is to establish a minimum standard (Standard) for home inspections performed by home inspectors who subscribe to this Standard. Home inspections performed using this Standard are intended to provide the client with information about the condition of inspected systems and components at the time of the home inspection. Find the entire ASHI standards of practice here: http://www.homeinspector.org/Standards-of-Practice
Q. What is the ASHI code of Ethics?
A. The ASHI Code of Ethics details the core guidelines of home inspection professionalism and home inspection ethics. Covering crucial issues such as conflicts of interest, good faith and public perception, these home inspection ethics are central pillars of home inspection professionalism for the entire industry. Find the entire ASHI code of ethics here: http://www.homeinspector.org/Code-of-Ethics