FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS​
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Q. WHY SHOULD I HAVE A HOME INSPECTION?
The purchase of a home will be the single largest investment you will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy, so that you can minimize costly surprises afterwards. Of course, a home inspection also points out the positive aspects of the home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to maintain it. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase.
If you already own a home, a home inspection may be used to identify problems so that you can take preventive steps which might avoid costly repairs in the future. If you are planning to sell your home, you may wish to have an inspection prior to placing your home on the market (Pre-Inspection or Seller's Inspection). This will give you a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector, and an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition, and get the home sold fast!
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Q. HOW LONG DOES AN INSPECTION TAKE?
Home inspections take between two and three hours for a standard size home. However, with large homes, older homes or homes with additions, the inspection may take longer. Also, a septic inspection can increase the duration of the inspection as well.
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Q. HOW MUCH DOES AN INSPECTION COST?
It depends on several factors. Is there a well & septic? Are there outbuildings? These are important questions that I will ask when you call for a price. For an accurate quote, call 906.370.1543.
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Q. WHY IS A RADON TEST IMPORTANT?
Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water and seeps into your home in the air you breathe. When you breathe air containing radon, you substantially increase your risk of getting lung cancer. By testing for this colorless, odorless gas, I can quickly determine if your home is at risk (an actionable level of Radon), and provide recommendations as to what can or should be done about the problem.
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Q. SHOULD I BE PRESENT FOR THE INSPECTION?
Yes, if you're able! My report is very thorough, so being present is not a necessity. I enjoy the process of showing and explaining the conditions of the home to my clients, and you will be able to observe me and ask questions directly about what you see. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you've seen the property first-hand through my eyes.
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Q. CAN I PERFORM AN INSPECTION MYSELF?
Yes you can, however you are are opening yourself up to a tremendous amount of risk and liability. Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has been properly trained and educated to identify critical issues. I am familiar with the many elements of home construction, proper installation, and maintenance. I understand how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect your judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, unbiased, third-party opinion by an expert in the home inspection industry.
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Q. 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 and help you make an informed decision.
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Q. IS IT POSSIBLE FOR MY HOUSE TO FAIL AN INSPECTION?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or 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 may need repair or replacement.
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Q. HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?
A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.