FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HOME INSPECTIONS
Home Inspection FAQ
The below home inspection FAQ covers common questions about the home inspection process, what it entails, and how to interpret the findings. It helps buyers and sellers understand the scope of the inspection, potential issues, and how to address them.
Key questions revolve around what is inspected, the inspector's qualifications, the cost, and the report's implications.
A home inspection is a visual examination of the home's major structure, systems and components that are visible and safely accessible.
The inspector should adhere to a standards of practice that outlines what will be covered during the inspection, as well as what is excluded. Crown Home Inspections follows both the InterNACHI Standards of Practice and the North Carolina Home Inspector Licensure Board (NCHILB)’s Standards of Practice.
A home inspection is a crucial part of the home buying process, providing buyers with valuable information about the property's condition before finalizing the purchase.
What is a home inspection?
What is included in a home inspection?
A home inspection covers all major systems and components of a home. Below is a comprehensive list of all that is inspected in a home inspection:
1. The Roof: Inspectors look for signs of age, damage, areas vulnerable to water intrusion, etc.
2. The Exterior: Inspectors check the condition of the wall cladding, areas vulnerable to water intrusion, drainage issues, deterioration of building components, etc.
3. Basement, Foundation, Crawl Space & Structure: Inspectors check the structural integrity of the building, water intrusion, proper construction practices, etc.
4. The Heating System: Inspectors check to ensure the heating system works as intended, and is operating safely. The flue pipes and gas lines are checked if it is a furnace. Temperature readings are recorded in various areas of the property if the exterior temperature permits.
5. The Cooling System: Inspectors check to ensure the cooling system works as intended, and is properly routing condensate away from the building. The condition of the line set is checked, and temperature readings are recorded in various areas of the property if the exterior temperature permits.
6. The Plumbing System: Inspectors identify the plumbing materials, check for leaks in all areas that are accessible, note any corroded components, inspect the water heater, the drain / waste / vent system, the gas distribution system (if present), etc.
7. The Electrical System: Inspectors identify the wiring materials, check the service entrance, grounding system, panel overcurrent protection devices & wiring, protection of wiring, etc.
8. Any Fireplaces, Stoves, Chimneys, Etc.: Inspectors check the exterior condition of the chimney chase, the interior condition of the firebox, the function of gas / electric fireplaces, etc.
9. The Attic, Insulation & Ventilation: Inspectors check the roof structure, insulation in unconditioned areas (attic, basement, crawl space), proper ventilation in unconditioned areas (attic, basement, crawl space), etc.
10. Doors, Windows, & The Interior: Inspectors check for proper function of doors and windows, fire and CO detectors, proper / safe function of all kitchen and laundry appliances, proper wiring of receptacles, the condition of floors & walls, the condition of attached garages and the garage door, etc.
The Report: All inspections are accompanied with a detailed written report with images and narratives of the findings. It also provides a wealth of information on the condition of the home at the time of the inspection, advice on how best to maintain the home, and information on the location of key utility disconnects and cutoff valves.
What is not included in a home inspection?
A home inspection has limitations. Below is a list of things that are not included:
1. Code: Home inspections are not code inspections. Inspectors do not verify compliance with local building code. Home inspection criteria is based on several national and international standards. Local building code is typically modeled after these standards, but this is not always the case.
2. Appraisal: A home inspection is not an appraisal. It does not attempt to determine the value of the property, nor does it determine the value of any necessary repairs.
3. Repairs: Home inspectors are prohibited from performing repair work on the items listed in the inspection report. Inspectors are held to a high standard with regard to impartiality. An offer to repair inspection findings would be considered a conflict of interest, which is a violation of the Licensure Code of Ethics.
4. Knowledge of Manufacturer’s Instructions: Determining whether a system or component is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions is beyond the scope of a home inspection. A home inspection is conducted based on a set of national and international standards. These standards are typically used by manufacturers in the development of systems, and formation of the corresponding installation instructions; but this is not always the case. A manufacturer's recommendation and/or instruction supersedes any national or international standard. Inspectors do not have foreknowledge of these instructions.
5. Cosmetic Issues: Home inspections focus on function and safety. Unless the home is brand new, cosmetic issues are normal and not considered a defect. For example, scratches on wood flooring and minor wall dings are not mentioned in a home inspection report.
6. Concealed Areas: Home inspections are visual in nature. Inspectors are unable to evaluate the condition of building components that are concealed behind walls or located in inaccessible areas.
7. Irrigation & Sprinkler System: Lawn irrigation and interior sprinkler systems (if present) are not part of a standard home inspection.
8. Private Well & Septic System: Inspection of a private well and septic system is available as an added service. These services are not included in a standard home inspection.
9. Low-Voltage Wiring: Low-voltage wiring, such as a phone line, coax cable, internet cable, alarm system, or doorbell is not part of a home inspection.
10. Roof Accessories: Roof accessories, such as antennas, solar panels, etc. are not part of a standard home inspection.
I’ve purchased a new construction home. Is a home inspection necessary?
Yes, a home inspection is still recommended for new construction homes. Even though the home is new, issues can arise during construction, and a professional inspection can identify issues. Home builders have been given a bad reputation in recent years. Many home inspectors have berated the quality of construction work in a very public way, which influences buyer sentiment in the market.
The truth is, home builders are under a significant amount of pressure to build quickly. Much of this pressure is out of their control, and the natural byproduct of quick work is human error. I’m a realist in many respects, and refrain from speaking ill about home builders. It is more accurate and helpful for all parties to simply emphasize that every home will have issues.
How long does a home inspection take?
Home inspections generally take between 3-4 hours. If an inspection takes less than 3 hours, it is likely going to be less accurate. The longer the inspection takes, the more thorough the inspector is going to be. This is especially the case if the home has a crawl space or exposed basement.
At Crown Home Inspections, single family homes generally take 4 hours. I would not want my inspector rushing through things to get to another job, so I extend that curtesy to all of my clients.
What if issues are found during the home inspection?
There isn’t much in this world that is perfect. Homes are no different - nearly every one has some kind of issue with it. The good news is that home inspectors are expertly positioned to guide the client and the real estate agent through understanding the issues.
Clients have two primary options when defects are documented in an inspection report: 1) Negotiate with the seller for repairs, price reductions, or credits; 2) Walk away from the deal if the issues are significant enough.
It is important to understand the severity of the problems, get professional estimates for repairs, and consult with a real estate agent prior to making a final decision.
How much does a home inspection cost?
Inspections typically cost between $300 - $500 depending on the size and age of the home. At Crown Home Inspections, condos are $300 while single family homes and townhomes start at $400. Homes over 3,000 square feet or older than 1978 have an additional fee due to the increased time required to inspect them.
Should I be present for the inspection?
Yes, it is highly recommended that the client attend the inspection towards the end. This gives the inspector a chance to show certain findings in person and better explain issues. It also gives the client an opportunity to ask questions and visualize findings. 65% of people are considered visual learners, therefore it is very helpful for most people to understand the home and its value by walking through it in person with the inspector.