What does a home inspection include?

In NC, the home inspection profession is well regulated by the NC Home Inspection Licensure Board and defined by the NCHILB Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. It is a visual inspection of readily visible/accessible and installed systems/components and is intended to provide the client with a better understanding of the condition of the property.  As a result, the client receives a report identifying defects and safety considerations in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, foundation/structure, roofing, exterior, and insulation/ventilation. That said, home inspections do not involve destructive or technically exhaustive testing and not all home defects are readily apparent. The home inspection is not a warranty; the client has more information with which to make a decision, but cannot be assured that all issues are discovered.

Should I attend the home inspection?

If schedule permits, it is beneficial to be present for the inspection. It is easier to understand the areas of concern and appreciate their significance. At the end of the inspection, I will present a high-level re-cap of my findings. Clients with busier schedules may opt to attend the re-cap only. All findings will be documented in the report, including descriptions and pictures. For those unable to attend, we can schedule a meeting or conference call to discuss the report.

Can a house fail an inspection?

No. A home inspection is not pass/fail, it is simply a review of the property in its current state.

How much time is required?

Inspection times vary depending on the size, style, and age of the home. Most homes require three to four hours to complete a thorough inspection.

Does a newly constructed house require inspection?"

Absolutely. A home inspection is a third party, unbiased evaluation of your new home. While new homes usually include a one-year warranty,  not all issues will become apparent within one year and are better addressed before you move in.

Are home inspections only for buyers and sellers?

Anyone who owns a home can benefit from a home inspection. Regular inspections may identify a problem before it spreads and the cost of remediation rises.

How often should a a homeowner request a maintenance inspection?

This depends on the homeowner's knowledge of house systems and how often he or she examines the entire home from crawlspace to attic. For those interested, I would suggest every 15 months so the inspector might observe defects that are only conspicuous within a certain season.

Who will receive the inspection report?

The report will go directly to you as the client and it is up to you with whom it is shared. You will have the option within the contract to authorize distribution to others such as buyer's/seller's agent, seller or contractor. The home inspector may not disclose the report to anyone without your permission, so should you decide to share with others not specified within the contract please do so in writing (email).

How much does a home inspection cost?

Fees are based on the size and age of the home.  Additional fees apply if detached buildings of other services such as Radon or Termite are included.

How do I make an appointment?

Just provide some basic information by clicking here and you will usually receive a reply on the same day or the next morning.

When is a home inspection advisable?

Anytime you wish to have a better understanding of the general condition of a home but these are the common milestones:

  • Before purchasing, usually during the due diligence period
  • In preparation for selling, to better predict the financial outcome and ensure a smooth selling process
  • Annually to properly care and maintain
  • After a major storm or event