By: Todd Riley ~ Sherlock home Inspections
1.) Home Inspections Are Only for Buyers Home Inspections are valuable for buyers and sellers. Sellers can identify and address issues before listing, making the sale process smoother. Additionally, homeowners who aren’t selling may need a specific type of Home Inspection for Insurance, warranty, problems, repairs, etc.
2.) The Home Inspector Will Uncover Everything
Most folks would be surprised to see some of the stuff we find. We often find issues that sellers have tried to hide, problems that even the folks living in the house were unaware of, and even defects that were missed by previous inspectors. However, no one can guarantee they find EVERYTHING, especially hidden or concealed defects, or problems that occur after the inspection has been performed.
3.) New Homes Don’t Need Inspections
Even in new homes we find construction defects, incorrect building materials, improper workmanship or installation techniques, and/or other issues that were missed by the builder. A thorough inspection can reveal problems early on, potentially saving major costs down the line.
4.) Inspectors Will Make Repairs &/or Ensure They Get Done
Home Inspectors don’t perform repairs OR ensure they get completed. We provide an inspection report that documents the home’s condition. Buyers and sellers can use that report to negotiate repairs or make price adjustments. Homeowners can use it to be made aware of needed repairs, make repairs required for insurance, request repairs covered by warranties, demand corrections from contractors, etc.
5.) All Inspectors Are the Same
Not all inspectors are equal. It’s important to hire a qualified Home Inspector with a good reputation to ensure a thorough evaluation of the property. A state License is the MINIMUM standard (anything less is illegal). Additionally, Inspectors should be Certified by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), and have several years of experience. Finally, while capability is important, it’s useless if the Inspector is limited by company policy. Many Inspectors don’t inspect ALL areas of the house or conduct imperative procedures during the course of the inspection.
Examples:
- Pest Inspection
- Chinese drywall
- Appliances
- Irrigation System
- Pool, Pool Deck, Pool Enclosure, Pool Equipment
- Seawall, Dock, Boat Lift
- Well Equipment
- Cosmetic or Aesthetic Concerns
- Climb Ladders
- Enter Attics and Crawl Spaces
- Move Obstructions
- Operate Electrical GFI’s & Breakers
- Manipulate Plumbing Shut Off Valves
- Open the Main Electrical Panel
- Use the following Inspection Tools:
Outlet /GFI Testers
Electrical Meters
Laser Thermometers
Moisture Meters
Infrared Cameras, etc.