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.
Comprehensive Inspection
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.
Professional
Assessment
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.
Ontario
Real Estate Association
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