Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Home Inspection?
Why do I need a Home Inspection?
What does a Home Inspection include?
Do I need to be there during the Inspection?
How long will the Inspection take?
Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?
Why can't I do the Inspection myself?
What if the Inspection uncovers problems?
Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?
What is a Home Inspection?
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A home inspection is a professional, complete visual examination of the all the systems and physical structural elements of a home or building. Our emphasis is on identifying existing or potential problems that require attention or correction to eliminate or prevent damage, deterioration, or a safety hazard.
Why do I need a Home Inspection? Back to top
A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house you are interested in before you buy. That way you can avoid costly surprise repairs and problems with your new home. Our report will also advise you of what maintenance is required to keep your home in top condition. A professional inspection will give you a clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. If you are selling your home, a listing inspection will point out any potential problems that might be uncovered later by the buyer's inspector. Finding them early will allow you to address them before listing your home, making for a faster and smoother sale.
What does a Home Inspection include? Back to top
Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of the heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structures.
Do I need to be there during the Inspection? Back to top
No, you aren't required to be there for the inspection. But many areas are better understood if you are present. Its a valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. We feel you'll be able to best understand the finished report and get the most benefit from it by having been there during the inspection.
How long will the Inspection take? Back to top
The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. For most homes, 2 1/2 hours is pretty typical. But for larger homes, or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.
Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection? Back to top
Absolutely. A professional inspection of a new home is important. We can spot potential problems early, while they are still easy to correct, and before they contribute to damage or deterioration. In the case of safety issues, you will want them detected and corrected before you move in, or as soon after as possible. Its especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls are finished. We may find problem areas that would not be readily detectable later.
Why cant I do the Inspection myself? Back to top
Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still don't have the knowledge, training and experience of a professional Home Inspector. We've inspected thousands of homes. We are not only familiar with all the systems of a home, and how they work and need to be maintained, but we also know what to look for to tell us that they are getting ready to fail. But beyond the technical expertise and experience a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector remains an impartial third party. If you are involved in buying or selling a house, its impossible for you to remain completely unemotional about the house, and this may cloud your judgment. The professional inspector will provide an objective outside reporting of the facts.
What if the Inspection uncovers problems? Back to top
Our report will tell you the condition of the house, including needed repairs and corrections. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to you to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect your purchase. If major problems are discovered, you may want to try negotiating with the seller to have them repaired before closing. Or perhaps the seller will lower the price, or offer more favorable contract terms. In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about potential problems, before you buy, gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.
Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection? Back to top
No. The code of ethics of The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the Administrative Code of the State of Nevada prohibits us from doing repair work on properties we inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. Our purpose is to provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home.