The Importance of a home inspection
A home inspection prior to purchasing a home or condominium can bring
peace of mind when you sign the sales contract. Knowing what to expect
both inside and out will help you make an informed decision about the
value of the home and the future upkeep.
A home inspection accomplishes two important goals. First, it gives you
a chance to determine the condition of the house, its structural
soundness, and the condition of its mechanical systems. Second, it
brings any problems to the seller's attention at a time when they can
be resolved before closing a sale.
If you sign a contract before inspection, consider including a clause
that the sale is contingent upon a satisfactory structural inspection,
and specify when the inspection is to be carried out. That way, you are
protected.
A comprehensive inspection includes a visual examination of the
structure from top to bottom, including the heating, air conditioning
systems, the interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof and
visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, the
foundation, basement and visible structure.
Following the examination, the inspector will provide a report that not
only points out possible defects or areas of concerns, but also the
positive aspects of the structure as well as the type of maintenance
that will be necessary to keep the home in good shape.
Even the most experienced homeowners lack the knowledge and expertise
of a professional inspection firm. For example, watermarks in the
basement may indicate a chronic seepage problem, or simply may be a
result of a single incident.
A professional assessment will provide complete information about the
condition of the property you are considering and will help avoid any
unpleasant surprises after the sale. In addition, a home inspector can
remain totally objective, while you as a prospective homebuyer may be
emotionally involved.
The inspection fee for a typical single-family house can vary depending
upon the geographic area. The particular features of the home such as
size, age and special structures will be taken into consideration. A
decision to have a home inspected is a good investment. You might save
many times the cost of inspection by being aware of defects,
maintenance requirements, and upgrading requirements.
Good decorating should not sell you on a house. Remember, you're also
buying structural and mechanical systems. Walk through a house twice
before you hire an inspector. The first time, look at the rooms, the
floor plan, and envision your own decorating ideas for the house. The
second time, go back and look at the condition of the walls, doors,
appliance, and plumbing. If the home still looks good after two visits
and you're getting serious about the purchase, hire an inspector.
Inspectors should be licensed in building-related fields; architects,
contractors, and structural engineers are good examples. When
interviewing a potential home inspection firm, carefully inquire about
the specifics of their work and company. Ask how long they have been in
business, ask for references from previous customers. Find out what
type of insurance they carry and do they guarantee inspections?
A home inspection usually lasts about three hours. Professional
inspection companies will be happy to answer all your questions. Avoid
firms that issue only a verbal report. The report should be in
narrative form, not just a checklist of items inspected. The home
inspector should also issue a written report with accurate cost
estimates for any major defects discovered during the inspection. You
may find it valuable to accompany the inspector as he goes through the
house.
Property inspections are not limited to residential properties. Many
inspectors help homeowners with analysis and solutions to specific
problems such as energy conservation, wet basements or cracked
foundations. Inspectors also inspect work upon completion to ensure
that a contract has been properly fulfilled.
If you are considering purchasing a home, the Ontario Real Estate
Association advises that you invest in an inspection by a reputable and
qualified inspection firm. Buying a home is one of the biggest
decisions you will make. Know what you are buying and what your future
upkeep obligations will be.
For more information regarding home inspections contact the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors.
Source: Ontario Real Estate Association
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