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.
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.
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 alone 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, appliances, 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.
For more information regarding home inspections
contact the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors.
Information located on this site
is from sources believed to be reliable but should not be relied upon
without verification. The Association and the Publisher assume no
responsibility for its accuracy.
