What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual analysis of a home's structure and systems and is done to help determine problems or conditions that exist at the time of the inspection. A home inspection done by a qualified home inspector will identify the areas of a home that are not performing properly, as well as items that are beyond their useful life or might be unsafe. A professional home inspection includes a comprehensive review of the home's interior and exterior, from the roof to the foundation and the exterior drainage and any retaining walls. If problems or symptoms are found, the home inspector may recommend further evaluation by a specialist.
Why do I need a Home Inspection?
The purchase of a home is one of the largest and most important purchases you are likely to make in your lifetime. It is important that you know as much as possible about this purchase so that you are armed with this information prior to making an offer on the house. Our inspectors are trained to provide a comprehensive and unbiased evaluation of the home and give you a report that will allow you to make a good decision about purchasing the home. An inspection report will describe the home in detail and will highlight the areas that have problems. A home inspection is a good idea even if you are already a homeowner. After all, we all get physical checkups periodically - why not give your home the same treatment? Many homeowners are living in homes that have serious problems that if identified early could have saved significant repair costs. Even small water leaks can cause serious and costly problems, but if they are caught early can usually be repaired easily. A home inspection will also give you an outline of the routine maintenance that needs to be done to your home. Sellers can benefit from a Pre-Listing Sellers Home Inspection to assist in finding problems that a buyer's inspection would likely have found. With a pre-listing inspection the seller has the ability to proactively make the repairs prior to the home going on the market.
The Home Inspection process: What does a typical Home Inspection include?
Our comprehensive home inspection includes over 400 items checked and verified to be sure you have the information necesary to make an inforned decision. We abide by the InterNACHI Standards of Practice. Some of the items checked include:
- Structural Elements
Construction of walls, ceilings, floors, roof and foundation.
- Exterior
Wall covering, landscaping, grading, elevation, drainage, driveways, fences, sidewalks, fascia, trim, doors, windows, lights and exterior outlets and lighting.
- Roof and Attic
Framing, ventilation, type of roof construction, insulation, flashing and gutters.
- Plumbing
Identification and condition of piping materials used for all plumbing systems including potable, drain, waste and vent pipes. We check toilets, showers, sinks, faucets and traps for proper operation.
- Systems and Components.
Water heaters, furnaces, air conditioning, duct work, chimney, fireplace and sprinklers.
- Electrical.
Main panel, circuit breakers, types of wiring, grounding, exhaust fans, receptacles, ceiling fans and light fixtures.
- Appliances.
Dishwasher, range, ovens, built-in microwaves, garbage disposal, compactors and, yes, even smoke detectors.
- Garage.
Slab, walls, ceiling, vents, entry, firewall, garage door, openers, lights, receptacles, exterior, windows and roof.
Click to see a sample home inspection report.
Should I be there during the home inspection?
We recommend that you are present at your home inspection. In doing so, you will be able to take notes and ask questions during the inspection, which usually last from 2 to 3 hours. During the walk through of the property, our home inspector will explain valuable information about your homes' plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning systems which will help in your maintenance efforts as you become the new homeowner.
We perform certified home inspections in San Diego from Chula Vista to North Park, Mission Valley, La Mesa, El Cajon, La Jolla, Del Mar and all the areas in between. We are available 7 days a week to accommodate your schedule.
Have an inspection already scheduled? Click to learn how to prepare for the home inspection.
|
