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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How long will the home inspection take?
A: Most inspections take between 2-4 hours. These times vary depending on the age, size, and condition of the home.
Q: Should I be present during the home inspection?
A: We prefer having you present during the home inspection if possible. If you cannot be present during the whole inspection being there to go over the report at the end of the inspection is recommended. If you cannot be at the home at all during the inspection I will be available for you over the phone.
Q: Why should I use your company for the inspection?
A: Since buying a home is one of the largest investments that a family will make it only makes sense that you want a knowledgeable and experienced inspector on your side. Remember that during the home purchase process only one person works for you exclusively and that is the “Home Inspector” all other parties involved have other interests in the transaction. The home inspection is an opportunity for you to get to know the property before your purchase. While a home inspection cannot predict future performance it can pinpoint existing problem areas.
Q: Why should I use a Home Inspector instead of an Engineer?
A: Typically when you hire an engineer the engineer specializes in one area such as the “foundation”. While the engineer can provide you with detailed information about the foundation it leaves most of the major components un-inspected. The home inspector will inspect most components in the home. If the inspector is concerned about specific components he will direct you to a specialist like an engineer. In short hiring an engineer as your inspector will typically cost more and likely will not provide you with the results you desire.
Q: Can I have someone in my family with construction background or a contractor inspect my home?
A: While you may have family members that are knowledgeable about construction or a good contractor they have not been trained to inspect homes. As someone that was a contractor for 12 years prior to becoming an inspector and having a father that has been in the construction industry for more than 50 years. I know that this experience does not provide someone with the knowledge to perform a professional home inspection. Many contractors hire licensed home inspectors to inspect properties they are going to purchase.
Q: Do I need a home inspection if the bank is having the house appraised?
A: Absolutely! An appraisal is an independent assessment of the value of the home based on comparisons of other properties of similar size and location. The inspection accesses the condition of the home. Even FHA appraisers request a copy of an existing home inspection report for their valuation.
Q: What will the home inspection include?
A: A thorough home inspection includes items from the foundation through the roof. Below is a list of the items inspected.
•Foundation
•Crawlspace
•Grading
•Drainage
•Gutters
•Ventilation
•Roof/flashings
•Attic
•Retaining walls
•Driveways & Walks
•Siding & Trim
•Windows
•Doors
•Floors
•Ceiling
•Walls
•Plumbing
•Electrical
•Heating/Cooling
•Built-in Appliances
•Sprinkler system
•Swimming Pool & Hot Tub
We also provide (WDI) Termite reports when added to the standard inspection.
Q: Do you inspect septic systems?
A: We do not perform septic inspections. Most home inspectors do not provide this service because of the type of equipment and work involved to perform the septic inspection properly. During a septic inspection the inspector needs to dig up and remove the lid of the septic tank. The tank then needs to be pumped empty for further evaluation. This service should be provided by a certified septic inspector or sanitary engineer.
If you are buying a home with a septic system we strongly encourage you to have it properly inspected. At least at the end of the septic inspection you will know that the tank is starting out empty for you and your family. If problems are discovered you will have the opportunity to negotiate the needed corrections.
Q: What if problems are uncovered during the inspection process?
A: The reality is that most homes have items that will be listed as “in need of repair”. The items may be due to age related deterioration, changes in building standards, or latent defects. This is when “time” becomes critical. Remember we will provide the inspection report “at the time of the inspection” not a later date. It is also when having a qualified and knowledgeable inspector that wants to “educate” you about your property becomes critical especially if you are present at the inspection. If you are not able to be present for the inspection I can E-mail you the report and I will be available to discuss the inspection with you over the phone.
Q: Can you fix the problems that are discovered during the home inspection?
A: No. It is a violation of the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) code of ethics. It is a huge conflict of interest for the home inspector to perform repairs of items identified during an inspection process. The situation also points out why it is better to have a home inspector that is also licensed to perform termite (WDI) reports instead of having a pest control company inspect the property.
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