Frequently Asked Home Inspection Questions!

The following are some of the most frequently asked home inspection questions. In the event you have a question that is not included please feel free to contact us.

What is a Home Inspection ?
(The second or third most frequently asked question.)

I'm purchasing a home, why should I have a Home Buyer Inspection ?
(The second most frequently asked home buyer question.)

My bank is having the property appraised, why do I need a Home Inspection?

A residential appraisal performs an independent evaluation of the properties current market value. The property is evaluated based on its location and the sale price of similar properties in the area. The appraiser establishes the value of the property based on the above conditions. The appraiser is normally working for the lender, even though you may be paying for the appraisal.

Alliance Home Inspection inspectors are working for you. Our home inspector identifies items that may need repair or replacement, prior to the closing of escrow, which can potentially save you thousands of dollars.

I'm selling a home, why should I have a Home Listing Inspection ?
(Normally the second most frequently asked home inspection question when a seller is considering a pre-listing inspection.)

Will you tell me if the house fails the inspection?
(A rarely asked home inspection question.)

In the eyes of a professional inspector, no house can "pass" or "fail" an inspection. A home inspection indicates the current physical condition of the property and identifies items that may need attention immediately or in the near future. The house is what it is.

The home inspector does not verify the house is in compliance with local building codes, a governmental inspector performs that function.

When should I schedule the home inspection?

If you are purchasing a home - It is important you schedule a home inspection as soon after signing a Purchase & Sale Agreement as you can. The Purchase and Sale Agreement will normally contain an inspection clause. The inspection clause usually specifies a number of business days you, the purchaser, have to complete the home inspection and present to the seller any items you want corrected.

If you are selling a home - It would be wise to schedule the home inspection prior to or shortly after listing the property for sale. Scheduling a pre-sale inspection early in the process allows you to identify conditions you may want to have repaired. Early identification allows you the seller to take a little extra time acquiring competitive bids rather than having to hire a contractor just to get the job done so the sale can proceed.

Do I have to attend the home inspection?

No. However, we do recommend you be present for the inspection. By accompanying the inspector during the inspection you will be able to ask questions, learn about the homes current condition and be better able to interpret the final report.

How much will the inspection cost?
(This is the winner - our most frequently asked home inspection question.)

The inspection cost for a single family home will vary depending on the square footage and age of the residence. Normally, the larger and older the home is, the more time is required to inspect the home and complete the report.

Alliance Home Inspection, provides affordable home inspection services.

Environmental/Air Quality Issues

Until recently there was little concern about the Air Quality in our homes. Scientists have discovered evidence which indicates we all should be concerned about the environmental conditions of our homes. After all, we spend approximately 60% to 70% of our time at home. Poor indoor air quality can cause or contribute to the development of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. In addition, it can cause headaches, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea and fatigue. People who already have respiratory diseases are at greater risk.

Our certified home inspectors feel the following should become more frequently asked home inspection questions.

I've heard a lot of bad things about mold. How serious a problem is it?
(This is becoming a more frequently asked home inspection question)

Biological pollutants, including molds promote poor indoor air quality and may be a major cause of days lost from work and school.

How concerned should I be about Radon?
(This is not one of the most frequently asked home inspection questions, but probably should be.)

An estimated one out of every 15 homes in the United States has radon levels above 4pci/L, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency-recommended level at which remedial action should be taken.

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