A home inspection refers to an objective visual examination and assessment of the structure and systems of a house, starting from the roof and ending at the foundation.
A home inspection is, in layman’s terms akin to a physical examination. The inspector might recommend an additional evaluation if there are any problems.
An inspection is first and foremost a visual survey of the areas an inspector can see. An inspector cannot tell clients exactly what was in evidence at the inspection date and time. The inspector’s eyes are no better than those of the buyers. However, the inspector has been trained to identify tell-tale signs or clues that could lead to actual or potential deficiencies or defects.
The current industry standards are what inspectors use to base their inspections. These standards define what an inspector can and cannot do as well as what they will not do. Many inspectors provide a copy to clients. If your inspector does not give you a copy of the standards, ask them. Or go to American Home Inspector Directory to find your local home inspectors association.
Since costs can vary widely between contractors, inspectors won’t give a definitive cost estimate for repairs or replacements. Inspectors will often tell clients to get three quotes from the contractors who are performing the repairs.
Inspectors are also advised to avoid life expectancies. Each system and component of a building will have an average life expectancy. While some items and components may live longer than expected, others might fail sooner than expected. Although an inspector can give a general idea of a client’s life expectancy, they should not be able to provide exact times for the reasons mentioned above.
National inspection organizations like ASHI, ISHI, and NAHI have many inspectors. These national inspection organizations offer guidelines to inspectors for performing their inspections.
All inspectors give reports to clients. An oral report is the least preferred type of report. They do not protect clients and can be misinterpreted and liable by the inspector. Written reports are preferred and can be in many formats and styles.
Here are some examples of more popular types of written reports:
- Comment on the Checklist
- Commentary and rating system
- Narrative report with either a rating or checklist
- Pure Narrative report
The exterior, crawlspace, and attic areas are the most important areas for home/building inspections. The inspector will typically spend enough time in each of these areas to look for red flags, clues, signs, or deficiencies. After inspecting a system, major part, or area, he/she will share the findings with clients, noting both positive and negative aspects.
All of the visible and accessible electromechanical systems, as well as all major structural systems and components that are visible or accessible to a building’s structure and systems, will be inspected in the home/building being inspected.
Get your home inspected by a certified home inspector San Antonio TX.
Lone Star Inspections
32882 Interstate 10 West Suite 203, Boerne, TX 78006
210-643-4588