HOME INSPECTION
Purpose
Responsibility
Environmental
Method
Advantage
Safety
Summary
PURPOSE – The purpose of a home inspection is to inform the homebuyer of any defects in the major mechanical systems with regard to electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling and its construction from roof to foundation. Inspectors look at the interior and exterior of the property to locate any defects or environmental hazards that might be present on the property. A comprehensive inspection would reveal if the home is in satisfactory condition.
RESPONSIBILITY – It is the responsibility of the homebuyer to be present at the time of inspection so that they can be made fully aware of any defects that are found. Likewise, it is the responsibility of the Inspector to provide a written report of all findings. If there are defects, digital photos are taken and the report must include an estimated cost for repairs. The report should be sent electronically to the buyer and/or his agent within 24 hours.
ENVIRONMENTAL – Homes built before 1978 require the disclosure of the presence of lead based paint and/or lead plumbing.
They test for the presence of elevated levels of Radon and, if found, should be disclosed.
The possible existence of asbestos and mold should also be disclosed in the report. (Follow-up specialized tests are performed separately.)
There are policies and procedures in place to correct the environmental hazards. Please check with your relevant local authority for these procedures. The Home Inspector may have this information available for you.
METHOD – The inspection can include: Roof, Termite, Structural, Interior & Exterior, Doors & Windows, Sprinkler, Appliances, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, Air Conditioning, and Pool. They also can offer inspections for sea wall, and mold.
- Air conditioner is turned on for the duration of the inspection and this is opened and the air handler, coils and filter are inspected.
- Appliances are turned on and allowed to run for a few minutes to ensure that everything is in working condition. During this time, the inspection of the kitchen is completed.
- Structure is inspected which includes the interior walls, bathrooms, windows, and flooring.
- Electricity – a check of the breaker box will reveal if there is double lugging or overheated wiring. This will reveal if the electrical system is insufficient or outdated.
- Attic – The insulation is checked for possible leaks or damaged or rotted roof sheeting, hurricane straps, and of course termites.
- Roof is inspected for its general condition for cracks and deterioration. We try to determine the age of the roof from the homeowner or by its general condition, and calculate its remaining life expectancy.
- Exterior of the house is inspected for settlement cracks.
- Pool - we look to ensure that the pool pump works and functions from a public system or a well.
- Sprinkler system – we make sure there are no broken sprinkler heads or leaks.
ADVANTAGE – Repairs on a home can be very costly. So the advantage of having a Home Inspection informs the homebuyer how extensive and costly the repairs can be before making a final decision of purchasing the property.
There are two types of defects that the inspector targets. The defects you can see, e.g. paint , water stains, or any other visible problems. Defects you can’t see, e.g. faulty plumbing, asbestos ceilings, dry rot or other hidden problems that the homebuyer may not recognize.
SAFETY – The report from the Home Inspector will indicate if the property exhibits health and safety concerns.
SUMMARY – The Home Inspector should be available to the homebuyer to answer any questions they may have regarding the report. Their goal is to make sure the homebuyer is satisfied and comfortable with an accurate and fully explanatory report.