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| BYLER HOME INSPECTIONS INC. Frequently Asked Questions |
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and
systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.
What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover 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 structural components.
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of
Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered in
your home inspection report.
Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize
unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can
about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A BHI home inspection
may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for
maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the
house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
If you already are a homeowner, a BHI home inspection can identify problems in the
making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a BHI home inspection can give you the
opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.
What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost
of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a
number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services
such as septic, well or radon testing.
Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection. The
sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and
the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s training
qualifications, including experience, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and
professional affiliations as a guide.
Why can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a
professional home inspector. A BHI inspector is familiar with the elements of home
construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He knows how a home’s
systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional
about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For
accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional
BHI home inspector.
Can a house fail a home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house.
It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection,
which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a
house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and
systems may need major repair or replacement.
When do I call a home inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase
agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in
the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a
professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to
which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
Do I have to be there?
While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended.
You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the
condition of the home and how to maintain it.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or
shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget
is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will
be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have
learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report, and will
have that information for future reference.
ASHI©
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and
systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.
What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover 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 structural components.
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of
Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered in
your home inspection report.
Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize
unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can
about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A BHI home inspection
may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for
maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the
house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
If you already are a homeowner, a BHI home inspection can identify problems in the
making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a BHI home inspection can give you the
opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.
What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost
of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a
number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services
such as septic, well or radon testing.
Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection. The
sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and
the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s training
qualifications, including experience, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and
professional affiliations as a guide.
Why can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a
professional home inspector. A BHI inspector is familiar with the elements of home
construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He knows how a home’s
systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional
about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For
accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional
BHI home inspector.
Can a house fail a home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house.
It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection,
which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a
house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and
systems may need major repair or replacement.
When do I call a home inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase
agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in
the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a
professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to
which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
Do I have to be there?
While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended.
You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the
condition of the home and how to maintain it.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or
shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget
is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will
be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have
learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report, and will
have that information for future reference.
ASHI©
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