This page contains answers to frequently asked questions along with some tips and tricks we have found useful and presented here as questions.

1. Why do I need a home inspection, what does it include and what will it cost ?
2. Can't I do it myself?
3. How do I find a qualified Home Inspector who will do a good job?
4. Should I attend the inspection and how long will it take?
5. What if the report reveals problems?
6. If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

Why do I need a home inspection, what does it include and what will it cost?

Purchasing a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. Learning as much as possible about the condition of the property and the need for major repairs before buying will minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards.

A home inspection points out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. You will have a much clearer understanding of the house you are about to purchase.

An inspection by a North Carolina Licensed Home Inspector will review the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, the foundation, basement, and visible structure.
 
Inspection fees for a typical single-family house vary geographically. Within a given area, the inspection fee will vary depending upon the size of the house, features of the house, its age, and additional services, such as septic, well, or radon testing. Check local prices.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection, or in the selection of a home inspector. Knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's qualifications, including experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the important considerations.

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Can't I do it myself?

The most experienced homeowner, including one involved in construction, lacks the knowledge, training and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, their proper installation and maintenance. He or she understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how they fail.

You will find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house you really want, and this will affect your judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

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How do I find a qualified Home Inspector who will do a good job ?

Your agent is familiar with the service, and should be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose. A good source is friends, or perhaps business acquaintances, who have been satisfied with and can recommend home inspectors they have used. In addition, the names of some local inspectors can be found in the Yellow Pages where many advertise under, "Building Inspection Service," or, "Home Inspection Service." In order to protect your interest the following recommendations are advisable:

1. Talk to family, friends and business acquaintances who have had their homes inspected.

2. Call a Realtor, Mortgage Banker, Attorney friend or talk with one who is a friend of your family.

3. Ask your Realtor.

4. Call the inspectors yourself; don't have your agent call.

5. Call several inspectors (at least 3); ask questions about their background, experience.

6. Ask if they have Liability and Errors and Omissions Insurance (for your own protection). Most don’t.

7. The choice must be yours and should be based on the inspector's experience, insurance and your comfort level, not on price. The best price is almost never the best deal!

8. Discuss Radon testing. Ask if they use charcoal canisters, e-perms or a monitor. Only monitors give you hourly readings, and most record temperature, humidity, barometric pressure and tampering. 

9. Insist the inspector send the report direct to you with a copy to your Realtor.

10. If you have questions, call the inspector.

11. Review the report with your Realtor relative to its implications and how it relates to your contract to purchase. You call the shots.

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Should I attend the inspection and how long will it take ?

Prepare a list of questions and concerns and relate them in advance to the inspector. Bring the list with you to the inspection.

Plan to accompany the inspector during the entire process. Observing the inspector, asking questions, learning about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain it will make the written report easier to understand. This will be like seeing the property through the inspector's eyes.

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What if the report reveals problems?

The inspector will identify problems. No house is perfect. You will know in advance what to expect, not that you shouldn't buy the house. The seller may make repairs or adjust the purchase price. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important.

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If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

After experiencing a Home Inspection by a professional Home Inspector, there will be no doubt. Now you can complete your purchase with your eyes open relative to the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report and will want to keep the information for future reference.

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