Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a "Home Inspection"?
• What does a home inspection include?
• Why do I need a home inspection?
• Why do I need a home inspection, when I'm buying new construction?
• What will a home inspection cost?
• Can I do the home inspection myself?
• Can a house fail an inspection?
• How do I find a home inspector?
• What is the American Society of Home Inspectors®?
• Who belongs to ASHI®?
• When do I call in a home inspector?
• Do I have to be present for the home inspection?
• What if the report reveals problems?
• If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

What is a "Home Inspection"?

A professional home inspection is an objective visual examination of the conditions existing in the home on the day of the inspection, which encompasses the 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.

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What does a home inspection include?

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, basement and structural components.

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report.

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Why do I need a home inspection?

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.

If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

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Why do I need a home inspection, when I'm buying new construction?

Many people question whether they need a home inspection when they are purchasing a brand new home. After all, the municipal inspectors have looked at the home during construction and the builder assures them that anything that is noted during the final walk-through will be addressed.

The facts are that the municipal inspectors do not have time to do a complete inspection of each and every home that they are charged with and a full inspection is just not within the scope of what they do. Although most builders are willing to make corrections to defects that are brought to their attention, if the defects are not discovered, they cannot be remedied.

There is a need for inspections of new construction. Defects can be discovered before they can create long-term problems. A main floor bathtub drain that is never connected can flood a crawl space and create collateral damages to the wood framing. Roof shingles installed by inexperienced workers or with lower quality material will reduce the lifespan of the roof system.

The purpose of the home inspection is to inform the buyer regarding the condition of the home, whether brand new or turn of the century (1900!). This is accomplished by the performance of a thorough, comprehensive inspection by experienced home inspectors.

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What will a home inspection cost?

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.

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Can I do the home inspection myself?

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.

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Can a house fail an inspection?

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

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How do I find a home inspector?

The best source is a friend, or perhaps a business acquaintance, who has been satisfied with and can recommend a home inspector they have used. Realtors are also generally familiar with the service, and should be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose.

Whatever your referral source, you will want to make sure that the home inspector is a Member of the American Society of Home Inspectors® (ASHI®) and is properly licensed and insured to do business in order to be certain of his or her professional qualifications, experience, and business ethics.

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What is the American Society of Home Inspectors®?

The American Society of Home Inspectors® (ASHI®) is the oldest and leading non-profit professional association for independent home inspectors. Since its formation in 1976, ASHI®'s "Standards of Practice" have served as the home inspector's performance guideline, universally recognized and accepted by professional and government authorities alike.

ASHI®'s professional ASHI Code of Ethics prohibits Members from engaging in conflict of interest activities which might compromise their objectivity. This is the consumer's assurance that the inspector will not, for example, use the inspection to solicit or refer repair work.

In order to assist home inspectors in furthering their education, ASHI® sponsors a number of technical seminars and workshops throughout the year, often in cooperation with one of its over 50 Chapters. ASHI® also serves as a public interest group by providing accurate and helpful consumer information to home buyers on home purchasing and home maintenance.

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Who belongs to ASHI®?

Members of ASHI® are independent professional home inspectors who have met the most rigorous technical and experience requirements in effect today. To become an ASHI® Member, an inspector must pass two written technical exams, have performed a minimum of 250 professional fee-paid home inspections, and maintained his or her candidate status for no less than six months. ASHI® Members are required to follow the Society's Code of Ethics, and to obtain continuing education credits in order to keep current with the latest in building technology, materials, and professional skills.

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When do I call in a home inspector?

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

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Do I have to be present for the home inspection?

It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is recommended. You will be able to observe 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 first-hand through the inspector's eyes.

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What if the report reveals problems?

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.

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If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with your eyes open as to the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will want to keep that information for future reference.

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