It does not matter if you are buying a home, selling a home, or simply want to learn more about the condition of your current home, a thorough check home inspection offers many benefits. This type of inspection includes a highly objective, visual-based examination of the structure and the systems within a home – from the foundation to the roof. Immediately following the inspection, the professional that conducted it will provide the individual that ordered it with an inspection report.

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What is Typically Included in a Thorough Check Home Inspection?

During a thorough check home inspection, the condition of the roof, attic, and insulation are evaluated. The walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, basement, foundation, and other structural components are inspected. The heating and cooling system, the interior and exterior plumbing systems, electrical system, and other relevant components of the home are all inspected. In addition to this, the following may also be provided:

  • Evaluation for insects that are known to destroy wood
  • A test on the well that measures the adequacy and pressure
  • An evaluation of the well water that measures for coliform and E. Coli
  • A well test for Lead, nitrites, and nitrates
  • A swab test for lead-based paints

What is a Home Inspection Report?

A home inspection report is a specialized document that provides a detailed and itemized list that is completed by a certified home inspection specialist.

This professional identifies any type of deterioration found in the home, assesses the systems of the home, and provides any recommendations that may aid in optimizing the condition and value of the home.

What is the Purpose of a Home Inspection?

A home inspection identifies major issues with a home. In most instances, it is obtained by a person that has an interest in purchasing a home. It gives information that will allow the individual to make an informed decision on the potential purpose.

In some instances, it is ordered for completion by a homeowner before that individual places the home for sale so that they know what areas to work on before placing it on the market.

In other cases, a homeowner may have a home inspection performed to simply get a snapshot of what is going on with their home.

Why Does a Buyer Need a Home Inspection?

Buying a home is typically the absolutely largest of investments during a lifetime. To help in minimizing surprises and difficulties after purchase, as much information as possible about the home should be obtained.

The best way to obtain this information is to have a home inspection performed. These examinations have the capability of identifying major repairs, building oversights, system problems, and more.

It helps a person determine if the investment that they are considering making is sound.

Does a Homebuyer Have to be Present During a Home Inspection?

No, a homebuyer does not have to be present when a home inspection is performed; however, if they want to be present, they may be.

By attending, the individual having the inspection performed will experience the highest level of value from the examination.

By working with the inspector during the process and talking with the professional, the individual will have a more comprehensive understanding of the structure and the steps that are necessary to properly maintain that home.

Is it Possible for a Home Inspection to Fail?

The home inspection is simply an examination that offers an objective-based assessment of the condition of a home. An inspector does not say that the home “passes” or “fails”. They simply describe the overall condition of the home and outline those that are in need of repair or replacement.

It is not like a home appraisal.

It will not determine the value of the home on the market. It does not verify that the structure is in compliance with the local codes. It merely provides a snapshot of the home and its condition.

What if the Home Inspection Reveals There Are Problems?

It is almost a guarantee that every single home that gets inspected will have some sort of issue. No home is perfect. The severity of the issues will be expounded upon by the home inspector. The goal of the communication provided by the inspector is to provide clients with a solid understanding of the structure.

The inspector will not recommend that the home be purchased, nor will they advise against purchasing the home. They will simply outline findings that may help determine the full costs associated with owning a home.

Common Issues Found in Thorough Check Home Inspection Services

The following outlines the most common issues that are known to be identified in a home inspection:

  1. Roof in Need of Repair or Replacement
  2. Issues with the Drainage System
  3. Foundation Problems
  4. Problems with the Plumbing
  5. Infestations of Various Types of Pests
  6. The Identification of Mold
  7. Heating System Failures
  8. Electrical Problems
  9. Structural-Based Damage
  10. Lack of Maintenance
Home Inspector Writing Notes on a Clipboard

What Questions Should be Asked During a Home Inspection?

If you are having a home inspection performed, you should consider asking the following questions:

  1. What are the most expensive issues that were found?
  2. What are the most urgent issues that need to be dealt with?
  3. What is your background and experience in home inspections?
  4. Are you certified in home inspections?
  5. What type of state is the roof in?
  6. Have you uncovered the presence of asbestos on the property?
  7. Is a radon test needed?
  8. How long do you expect the home to last?
  9. How are the inner building materials of the home?
  10. How is the soil located near the foundation?

What Repairs are Considered Mandatory Following a Home Inspection?

Generally speaking, there are no “mandatory fixes” following a home inspection; however, there are those that should be handled as quickly as possible in order to avoid future problems. These include – but are not limited to – the following:

  • Mold Damage
  • Water Damage
  • Pest Infestations
  • Wildlife Infestations
  • Fire Hazards
  • Electrical Hazards
  • Toxic Hazards
  • Chemical Hazards
  • Structural Hazards
  • Building Code Violations
  • Trip Hazards
  • Safety Hazards

Who Pays for Repairs After a Home Inspection?

Who is responsible for paying for repairs after a home inspection depends heavily on the contract that has been established and the state where the inspection was performed. If you are wondering, be certain to ask the home inspector that you choose to inform you of the laws and regulations pertaining to this in your state.

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Who Does Home Inspections?

We here at All Pest Exterminating handle both pest control services and enlist a licensed partner that performs home inspections. We offer home inspections for both buyers and sellers. In addition to this, we offer pre-inspections. It does not matter if you want to sell a home or have an interest in buying a home, we can help you identify any and all issues of the structure and the surrounding property. We started offering inspections in 2001.

Since that time, we have expanded from whole-house inspections to those that also identify wood-destroying insects. Furthermore, we offer well inspections, septic inspections, and paint inspections to determine the presence of lead. In 2007, we expanded our services even further. We offer the most comprehensive home inspections in and around Richmond, Indiana. If you are ready to have your home evaluated, we encourage you to contact us today, inquire about the services that we offer, and set up an appointment.