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 30 plus years, reflected in the fact that most home sale contracts now include language regarding the home inspection and other standard tests. While most 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 further discussed as part of the negotiations. 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. While pictures are a great help to understanding the components and issues with your new purchase, it is difficult to get the same intimate feel for your new home based on the written report only. In the eyes of our inspectors, you are the most important person at the inspection.
Can you tell me what kind of structural improvements I can make?
The home inspection is specifically performed 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 most often require the services of 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 colorless, naturally occurring gas formed by radioactive decay of radium atoms. Radon accumulating in basements and other areas of buildings without proper ventilation has been identified as the second leading cause of lung cancer in America, claiming 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:
Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide to Radon
A Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon
What other tests should I have on my home?
If your home has a well, it is recommended that the water at least be tested for a basic profile prior to the sale, which includes bacteria, pH levels and other components. You can request additional testing on water for radon, lead, uranium, arsenic, flouride, etc. When you call for your appointment, we will clearly articulate your options, and send you information that you can look over before deciding the depth of water testing for your new home.
If you have concerns about air quality, we can also do air testing, or swab/tape sampling if there is visible mold. Ask us about how mold, allergens and particulates are identified in the home.
If your home is served by a septic system, consider having a qualified septic inspector perform a camera inspection. Photo Inspection is happy to provide you with names of local septic companies, where they are available.
The inspection process has become standard practice in most states over the past 30 plus years, reflected in the fact that most home sale contracts now include language regarding the home inspection and other standard tests. While most 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 further discussed as part of the negotiations. 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. While pictures are a great help to understanding the components and issues with your new purchase, it is difficult to get the same intimate feel for your new home based on the written report only. In the eyes of our inspectors, you are the most important person at the inspection.
Can you tell me what kind of structural improvements I can make?
The home inspection is specifically performed 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 most often require the services of 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 colorless, naturally occurring gas formed by radioactive decay of radium atoms. Radon accumulating in basements and other areas of buildings without proper ventilation has been identified as the second leading cause of lung cancer in America, claiming 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:
Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide to Radon
A Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon
What other tests should I have on my home?
If your home has a well, it is recommended that the water at least be tested for a basic profile prior to the sale, which includes bacteria, pH levels and other components. You can request additional testing on water for radon, lead, uranium, arsenic, flouride, etc. When you call for your appointment, we will clearly articulate your options, and send you information that you can look over before deciding the depth of water testing for your new home.
If you have concerns about air quality, we can also do air testing, or swab/tape sampling if there is visible mold. Ask us about how mold, allergens and particulates are identified in the home.
If your home is served by a septic system, consider having a qualified septic inspector perform a camera inspection. Photo Inspection is happy to provide you with names of local septic companies, where they are available.
