Frequently Asked Questions
The first and most
often asked question is - What is included in the home
inspection?
The purpose of a residential
inspection is to disclose the general condition of the building,
improvements, mechanical systems and appliances as they exist the day of
the inspection.
The scope of the
home inspection is a visual observation, with limited use of mechanical
instruments, of readily accessible areas of the building,
improvements, mechanical systems and appliances. The inspection
is limited to areas and systems identified as follows: grounds and
appurtenances; roofing / guttering / other roof components; home
exteriors, garage / carports; electrical; basement / crawl space /
slab; plumbing; heating; cooling; attic; and general interiors and
kitchen / appliances.
The home
inspection is limited to readily accessible areas. No
disassembly of equipment or activating or equipment that has been
"shut-down" will be performed. No opening of walls, moving of
furniture, appliances, stored items, walking of roofs or excavation is
to be performed. Concealed, camouflaged or inaccessible
conditions may be exposed.
Systems and conditions
that are not within the scope of the home inspection include, but not
limited to environmental hazards; pest infestation; portable
appliances (e.g. washers, dryers, window air conditioners); security
systems; telephone or television systems; fire or lawn sprinklers;
swimming pools; spas or jetted tubs; tennis courts; playground or
other residential or leisure appliances or equipment; below ground
septic or drainage systems, water wells, zoning ordinances; or any
items considered cosmetic in nature. Any general comments about
these systems and conditions are informational only and do not
represent an inspection.
How long does the
inspection process take?
The typical home inspection takes
2.5 ~ 3 hours based on the size and condition of the property. It
is necessary for all utilities to be turned on 24 hours prior to the
inspection.
What are the
responsibilities of the Home Inspector?
The procedures /
responsibilities are Residential Standards that identify what is to be
inspected and reported.
The Home Inspector will not
accept, or offer commission or allowances, directly or indirectly,
from other parties in connection with work for which the Inspector is
responsible.
The Home Inspector will
promptly disclose to the client any interest in a business, which may
effect the client. The Inspector will not allow an interest in
any business to affect the quality or results of the inspection work,
which the Inspector may be called upon to perform. The Inspector
may not perform any work of improvement to a residence upon which the
Inspector performed a home inspection within the previous 12 months.
Do I need to be
present during the home inspection?
The client
need not be present during the inspection however, it may be beneficial
for you to be present. Seeing the property through the inspector's eyes
may be beneficial in helping you to understand the overall condition of
the home, as well as the home inspection report at the conclusion of the
inspection.
Does the Inspector
Warranty or Guarantee his work?
The residential inspection
report is not intended to be used as a guarantee or warranty, expressed
or implied, regarding adequacy, performance, or condition of any
inspected building improvements, mechanical system or appliances.
The Home Inspector will take no position on value nor make any representation
as to advisability of purchase or suitability to use. The
Inspector will not incite or stir up quarrels or instigate groundless
lawsuits.
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