WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?

A home inspection consists of a visual examination of a property’s structural and system components. It is conducted from the foundation to the roof and accompanied by a written report. Much like a physical check up, if problems or symptoms exist, an inspector may suggest further evaluation.

WHY YOU NEED A HOME INSPECTION

Buying a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make.  It can also be very stressful.  Being familiar with a property’s condition and need for major repairs before you buy is necessary so as to minimize any surprises or difficulties afterwards.

 A home inspection should also note the positive aspects of the home, as well as any necessary maintenance to keep it in good shape. After reviewing the report with the inspector, you will be able to make a much more educated decision and have a clearer understand of the property you are purchasing.

 If you have a home you’re going to sell, you want an inspection before you list it on the market.  This will give you valuable insight to what a buyer’s inspector may find while affording you the opportunity to make repairs that will put your home in better selling condition.

WHAT THE HOME INSPECTION INCLUDES

The standard inspection report will review the condition of the following:

• Heating and cooling systems

• Interior plumbing systems

• Electrical systems

• Roof covering and structure, attic and insulation

• Walls, ceilings and floors

• Windows and doors

• Visible foundation and structure

• Crawl space and basement

• Grading and drainage

• Fireplace, chimney

• Attached porches, decks and carports

• Built-in appliances

 Optional systems/services may include: 

• Engineered reports

• Swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas or spas

• Gas lines

• Pest (termites and other wood destroying insects)

• Lawn sprinkler systems

 UNDERSTANDING THE INSPECTION REPORT

Communication with the inspector is important in order to fully understand the inspection report and its findings. Although it is not necessary, we encourage you to be present at the Inspection.  This will allow you to observe and ask questions as you learn the condition of the home, its systems, how they work and routine maintenance.  You may also find the final report easier to read and understand having seen the property first hand from the inspectors point of view.

 WHAT TO DO IF THE REPORT REVEALS PROBLEMS

It is important to know that no house is perfect. If an inspection report reveals problems, it does not necessarily mean you should not buy the house, only that you will know ahead of time what to expect. This information will be very important to you if you wish to avoid costly major repairs.  If major problems are detected, it may cause the seller to adjust the selling price or contract conditions.  If a home is found to be in good shape, you can complete the purchase with you eyes wide open as to the condition of the property, its systems, components and equipment.  The written report will also have taught you many things about your new home and you will want to keep it for future reference.

WHY YOU SHOULD USE A PROFESSIONAL HOME INSPECTOR

The reason is simple. Knowledge and expertise gained from education, training and experience.  All inspections will be conducted by a professional home inspector (licensed by The Texas Real Estate Commission) from an impartial objective pint of view with quality and integrity.

 HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE

In most cases you should allow between two to four hours to complete the entire inspection depending on the size of the home and its systems.  Some inspectors use state of the art computer generated reports that can usually be produced on site with 20 minutes of the completed visual inspection.  Others need a day or two to complete the report.