Frequently Asked Questions
HOMEBUYERS
What is a home inspection?
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 substantially adhere to a standards of practice that outlines what should be covered during a general home inspection, as well as what is excluded. Some inspectors may strictly follow the standards of practice, while others may exceed the standards and inspect other items, or perform a more detailed inspection. Whatever the inspector includes in his or her inspection should be discussed prior to the inspection – this is known as the scope of work. The inspector should be able to provide you with a copy or online link to the standards of practice they follow. The inspector should provide you with a written report, which may include photos and/or recommendations, of his or her findings of the inspection. Read InterNACHI's Standards of Practice to find out what is typically included and excluded in a home inspection.
DO I NEED A PROFESSIONAL HOME INSPECTION?
Buying a home is typically the biggest investment you will ever make, so it's important to get a home inspection because the inspector should be able to discover and document defects that may or may not be obvious to you as a prospective buyer. Such defects can range from simple replacements or repairs, to severe damage or safety and health concerns. Additionally, most mortgage companies require a home inspection on a property before approving the home loan.
​HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THAT I SELECT THE RIGHT INSPECTOR?
It is important to choose a home inspector who is qualified and holds a license or certification in the field. Many jurisdictions do not regulate home inspections, meaning that anyone could call themselves a home inspector. However, just because someone performs home inspections doesn't mean that they're actually qualified to do so. If you are buying or selling a home in an unregulated jurisdiction, make sure to look for a home inspector with the proper certifications. If you are located in a state or province that does require licensing of home inspectors, you should hire only a licensed professional.
Contact your state by phone or online to find out whether they license home inspectors, and what qualifications they're required to have. License numbers in licensing states may vary in appearance, but you should be able to independently verify it. If your state doesn't require licensing, find out what qualifications and certifications your home inspector has. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors – InterNACHI® – is the largest and most trusted home inspector association in the world. Its members undergo rigorous training to become Certified Professional Inspectors (CPIs)®. They also follow a Standards of Practice and adhere to a Code of Ethics. Also, the Master Inspector Certification Board grants qualified inspectors the title of Certified Master Inspector® (CMI®), which is the highest professional designation in the inspection industry. Find out if your inspector is licensed and/or a CPI or CMI® before you hire him or her. This will ensure that you are hiring only an individual who has received the best training to become a home inspector.
HOW MUCH DOES A HOME INSPECTION COST?
There is no set cost for a home inspection. The cost will vary based on the inspector, the local market, the geographic region, the scope of the inspection to be performed, and more. Before the inspection, you should find out what will be included in the inspection and what won't, and these details should also be outlined in the inspection agreement that you will need to sign prior to the inspection.
HOW LONG DOES A HOME INSPECTION TAKE?
There are a number of factors that determine how long a home inspection will take including size, age and condition of the home. In most cases the process can be completed in two to three hours.
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AT WHAT POINT SHOULD A HOME INSPECTION BE SCHEDULED?
A home inspection is usually scheduled after an offer has been made and accepted, but before the closing date. That way, the inspector can rule out any major defects that could be dangerous or costly. In rare cases—due to timing or contractual issues—the inspection can be scheduled after the closing date. If this is the case, the home buyer should schedule the inspection for the earliest possible date after closing.
SHOULD I BE PRESENT FOR THE HOME INSPECTIONS?
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You should attend the inspection, and you should reconsider hiring an inspector who doesn't allow this. You can learn a lot by following an inspector through the home. You will certainly gain a better understanding of the home's condition, which will give you insight into its potential sale points and defects. Additionally, you will likely learn information about the home's maintenance, systems and components that may provide useful for the transaction.
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SELLERS
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE for HOME INSPECTION
COST?
In the majority of cases the cost of a home inspection is covered by the buyer. Inspections are generally considered a benefit to the buyer, so they have the responsibility to choose who they work with and pay for the related expenses.
DOES THE SELLER RECIEVE A COPY OF THE INSPECTION REPORT?
The inspector is legally obligated to only share inspection findings with the buyer and their agent. When the buyer schedules and pays for the report, it’s their property and they are under no commitment to share that information with the seller.
SHOULD I GET A PRE-INSPECTION BEFORE LISTING HOME?
A popular option for home sellers is our pre-listing inspection services. By having your home thoroughly inspected prior to hitting the market you can provide buyers with peace of mind, remove potential barriers to closing and even gain additional leverage for a better asking price.