FAQ's
Must I have an inspection done when buying a home?
The inspection process has become standard practice in most states over the past 20 years, reflected in the fact that most home sales contracts now have a clause regarding the home inspection and other tests. While states, and even mortgage companies may not require an inspection, it is highly recommended, as the inspection and the follow-up report will give you an excellent measure of the condition of the home, as well as an idea as to maintenance needs, future budgetary recommendations, and even positive highlights of your new home.
Is the seller required to fix any defective components that are discovered in the inspection process?
Although the laws of each state differ, most do not require that updates, repairs or improvements be made. With that said, unknown deficiencies that are revealed through the inspection process are often the topic of further discussion. Some states may require certain items to be brought up to code before conveying a property. You should check with the regulations in your particular state to be sure of these requirements.
I can’t make it to the inspection, can you just send me a report about the home inspection after it is complete?
It is highly recommended that you attend the inspection. The purchase of a home is likely the most expensive purchase you will make in your lifetime. One of the most important aspects of the inspection process is the interaction between you and your inspector. When deficiencies are explained, questions are answered, and various components of your home are pointed out. It is difficult to get the same intimate feel for your new home based on a written report only. At the inspection, you are the most important person present.
Can you tell me what kind of structural improvements I can make?
The home inspection is specifically to report on the condition of the home as it is on the day of the inspection. Your inspector cannot, and should not advise on future renovation plans that include structural changes, as this would require a structural engineer. While your inspector can identify components of the structure, recommendations on more than that is beyond the scope of an inspection.
Do I need to have the home tested for radon?
Radon is a cancer-causing natural radioactive gas that you can’t see, smell or taste. Its presence in your home can pose a danger to your family's health. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in America, and claims about 20,000 lives annually. The U.S. Surgeon General and EPA recommend that all homes be tested. A radon test is a simple two-day test that will tell you if radon gas is present in the home above the recommended levels. You can get more information on radon by downloading these EPA publications:
A Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon:
http://www.epa.gov/radon/pdfs/citizensguide.pdf
Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide to Radon:
http://www.epa.gov/radon/pdfs/hmbuygud.pdf
What other tests should I have on my home?
If your home has a well, it is recommended that the well water be tested for bacteria and a basic profile prior to the sale, and then every 1-2 years, thereafter. Photo Inspection can do your water test for you.
If your home is served by a septic system, consider having a qualified septic inspector perform a visual inspection, or even a camera inspection. Photo Inspection is happy to provide you with names of local septic companies, when they are available.
The inspection process has become standard practice in most states over the past 20 years, reflected in the fact that most home sales contracts now have a clause regarding the home inspection and other tests. While states, and even mortgage companies may not require an inspection, it is highly recommended, as the inspection and the follow-up report will give you an excellent measure of the condition of the home, as well as an idea as to maintenance needs, future budgetary recommendations, and even positive highlights of your new home.
Is the seller required to fix any defective components that are discovered in the inspection process?
Although the laws of each state differ, most do not require that updates, repairs or improvements be made. With that said, unknown deficiencies that are revealed through the inspection process are often the topic of further discussion. Some states may require certain items to be brought up to code before conveying a property. You should check with the regulations in your particular state to be sure of these requirements.
I can’t make it to the inspection, can you just send me a report about the home inspection after it is complete?
It is highly recommended that you attend the inspection. The purchase of a home is likely the most expensive purchase you will make in your lifetime. One of the most important aspects of the inspection process is the interaction between you and your inspector. When deficiencies are explained, questions are answered, and various components of your home are pointed out. It is difficult to get the same intimate feel for your new home based on a written report only. At the inspection, you are the most important person present.
Can you tell me what kind of structural improvements I can make?
The home inspection is specifically to report on the condition of the home as it is on the day of the inspection. Your inspector cannot, and should not advise on future renovation plans that include structural changes, as this would require a structural engineer. While your inspector can identify components of the structure, recommendations on more than that is beyond the scope of an inspection.
Do I need to have the home tested for radon?
Radon is a cancer-causing natural radioactive gas that you can’t see, smell or taste. Its presence in your home can pose a danger to your family's health. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in America, and claims about 20,000 lives annually. The U.S. Surgeon General and EPA recommend that all homes be tested. A radon test is a simple two-day test that will tell you if radon gas is present in the home above the recommended levels. You can get more information on radon by downloading these EPA publications:
A Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon:
http://www.epa.gov/radon/pdfs/citizensguide.pdf
Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide to Radon:
http://www.epa.gov/radon/pdfs/hmbuygud.pdf
What other tests should I have on my home?
If your home has a well, it is recommended that the well water be tested for bacteria and a basic profile prior to the sale, and then every 1-2 years, thereafter. Photo Inspection can do your water test for you.
If your home is served by a septic system, consider having a qualified septic inspector perform a visual inspection, or even a camera inspection. Photo Inspection is happy to provide you with names of local septic companies, when they are available.
