Joshua It’s now time to consider the details, which includes the home inspection. Home inspections are often included in the offer made by traditional buyers, and even iBuyers.
It is important to understand what questions you need to ask the home inspector. A home inspection is a hassle, and you may not want to waste your valuable time or resources.
It is important to be familiar with the home inspection process before you decide to sell your home using a method that includes a complete home inspection.
The real estate market today is very different from the one that your parents experienced 30 years ago. Even 10 years ago, the market was not the same. Home inspections have changed along with the technology of today.
We has adopted the evolution of real estate and utilizes a team local agents to assess the home. This allows for a more accurate and faster appraisal, as well as completing the majority of home research before the walkthrough.
Definition of a Home Inspection
Home inspection is defined by the American Society of Home Inspectors ASHI as “an objective visual evaluation of the physical structures and systems of a residence, from the roof down to the foundation.”
It can be a frightening experience for a seller to have a home inspection. If you are prepared for what a buyer might ask, before, during and after the inspection, then it will be less intimidating.
Home Inspector in Palm Coast may be asked by a buyer to answer questions ranging from a general overview to more specific questions about the plumbing and electrical systems of the home.
Asking the questions below to a home inspector can be a good idea.
Before The Inspection, Ask The Home Inspector These Questions
1. Do I need to be there?
ASHI doesn’t require that the seller or buyer attend the inspection. The seller is often advised not to be present, whereas the buyer will usually attend.
A traditional home inspection allows the buyer to observe and ask questions about the condition of the house, as well as any problems and maintenance suggestions.
We agents will walk with you and guide the inspection because they know the house the best.
2. How long does a home inspection take?
The length of each home inspection will be unique and vary depending on the property. The inspection can last as little as 90 minutes, or as long as six hours, depending on the size and condition of the house.
The inspection could take longer if there are other buildings on the property, such as detached garages, barns or storage facilities. Our inspections are much quicker than traditional inspections, taking only 15-30 minutes.
3. What are the inspections?
ASHI’s standard home inspection report includes:
- Roof, attic and visible insulation
- The basement and structural components
- Heating and cooling systems
- Electrical and plumbing systems in the interior
- Ceilings and floors in the interior
- Inspections of the interior and exterior of windows and Doors
In many places, wind mitigation (or wind-mit) is not a major concern. Termite inspections are also not included in general home inspections as they require specialists. This additional inspection would have to be requested by the buyer and he would be responsible for paying.
4. If any damage occurs during inspection, who is responsible?
Sometimes things don’t work out as planned. It can be hard to prove fault if damage occurs during a home examination. This can cause problems for the seller. We allows you to be present during the home inspection as the seller and witness the whole process.
You may be responsible for the repair costs if you are not present to see the damage, or if a video camera system fails to capture it.
What To Ask The Home Inspector During The Inspection
5. Do you have any drainage or foundation issues?
It is important that the foundation of any building or home be sound structurally and free from defects, which can result in expensive repair costs. Sinking, cracked or damaged foundations can cause safety issues and lead to expensive repairs. Home inspectors are often asked about the foundation by buyers.
When it comes to foundation problems, there’s more than meets eye. Do not be fooled by the appearance of your foundation.
Many foundation problems go unnoticed for years until they are discovered during an inspection.
Standing water attracts other insects and pests. Another problem is poor drainage caused by problems with the city sewer system.
6. How old is the roof?
Insurance companies may not cover a roof if it is beyond its prime. Roofs can have a different lifespan depending on a number of factors, including the climate and weather of the area and the roofing material.
Roof materials can last between 10 and 20 years.
- Asphalt shingles: 20 Years
- Fiber cement shingles: 25 Years
- Wood Shake Styles: 25 to 30 Years
- Copper, slate, and tile materials: 50 Years
At least once per year, a roofing professional should inspect the roof of your home to look for any damage, leaks or other problems.
7. Is it necessary to inspect a sewage system?
A septic system in a house should be inspected annually by a professional. The property should also be inspected once it is put up for sale.
InterNACHI says that the household septic is the most expensive fixture. If it’s neglected then repair costs will be high.
8. Is the wood in question a problem?
Wood rot happens, unfortunately. Wood rot, also known as wood decay is one of the most common questions asked by home inspectors when purchasing a property.
If your home has wood trim, decking, or siding, rot is likely to occur. Wood materials for decking and siding have an average lifespan of 10-20 years when properly maintained.
The problem of wood may not only be on the outside. Poor ventilation/circulation can lead to humidity and the decay of interior wood materials.
Termites and carpenter ants do not cause wood to rot. However, they can damage wood that has been weakened by decay or rot. The buyer can request a termite inspection, which is performed at their expense.
9. Does the electrical system meet safety and current standards?
A faulty or outdated electrical system could pose serious safety issues for a homeowner as well as any potential buyers.
The electrical system is a question that most buyers ask their home inspector. Older homes often need outdated systems replaced or else they can be a fire risk. These repairs can be costly.
The National Electric Code requires that any electrical issues, particularly if the system is old, be addressed to bring it up to date.
10. What are the biohazards that exist?
Home inspectors will ask you about lead paint and asbestos. They may also inquire about mold or radon. They are biohazards, and they are often found in older houses.
A newer building may be affected by mold from roof or foundation leaks, and even “sick-house syndrome” can occur if the ventilation is not adequate. Underground pollution is another biohazard that can affect homes of any age. It’s caused by oil or septic tanks and may also be caused by roof leaks.
What To Ask The Home Inspector After The Inspection
11. What needs to be fixed right now?
According to the problems that were found, certain repairs should be given priority. All issues that are discovered during the inspection of the house and pose a safety risk must be addressed immediately. The seller may be forced to accept the buyer’s safety definition.
12. What is the average time for repairs and will they affect move-in date?
The timeline for repairs may vary because each home is different and every inspection will have its own result. The severity of the issue, whether the entire roof needs to be replaced or just a few shingles, can affect the speed at which repairs are completed.
It’s summer, and your HVAC system is in need of attention. However, it might take some time to make an appointment because it’s the season.
It can take longer to close the sale if a seller is required to do these repairs.
13. What are the costs of these repairs?
The cost of repairs can also vary greatly, just like the timeline. The cost will vary depending on the type of repairs, the age of your home and even where you live.
We allows sellers to receive offers on the spot and close their sale in as little as seven days.
Prepare For The Inspection, Home Sellers
It is important that a seller prepares their property and home before any kind of home inspection. These tips include:
- Cleaning the exterior and interior of your home, including gutters, decks and other areas.
- Pets are not allowed during the inspection. Bring them along or secure them in a crate.
- Make sure that all areas, including rooms, halls, stairs and other spaces, are free of clutter. There should be enough space to move around.
- Clear the deck, driveway and walkways if there is snow or debris on ground.
- Access to all parts of the house is essential, including the attic and crawlspace. Also, any HVAC units located in storage spaces should be accessible.
- Light is vital during an electrical inspection of a house and should be replaced as necessary.
- Check that all smoke detectors and CO alarms are working and that the home alarm is functional.
- Never leave dishes or clothes in the dishwasher and/or washer dryer
Home sellers should know that a home inspection will likely occur once their property is listed, whether through a traditional agent or an iBuyer.
This is a part of the process. If the seller does not prepare, then the home inspector may have difficulty doing their job, and the chances are that the results will be less favorable.