A home inspection is a professional, objective, visual examination of the condition of a home. Home buyers now entering the marketplace view inspections as a way to gain valuable information about the biggest purchase of their lifetime. It helps them to determine whether there are any major defects or system inadequacies at the time of purchase.
In most cases, home inspections are performed after the sales contract has been accepted by the seller. A sales contract is conditional upon a satisfactory home inspection. The inspection can usually be arranged immediately to within a few days. The home buyer is typically encouraged to attend the inspection, so that he/she can see first hand the workings of the home. It also provides an excellent opportunity for the prospective buyer to ask questions about the home or to discuss potential changes.
Overview of what is Inspected.
A visual inspection of the property is conducted to determine whether items appear to function properly at the time of inspection.
Structural Systems
- Foundations
- Grading and Drainage
- Roof Covering
- Roof Structure
- Walls
- Ceilings and Floors
- Doors
- Windows
- Fireplace/Chimney
- Porches, Decks and Carports
- Other Special Structures
Electrical Systems
- Service Entrance and Panels
- Branch Circuits – Connected Devices and Fixtures
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems
- Heating Equipment
- Cooling Equipment
- Ducts and Vents
Plumbing Systems
- Water Supply
- Plumbing System and Fixtures
- Drains, Wastes, and Vents
- Water Heating
- Hydro-Therapy Equipment
Appliances
- Dishwasher
- Food Waste Disposer
- Range Hood
- Ranges/Ovens/Cooktops
- Microwave
- Cooking Equipment
- Trash Compactor
- Bathroom Exhaust Fans and/or Heaters
- Whole House Vacuum Systems
- Garage Door Operators
- Door Bell and Chimes
- Dryer Vents
- Other Built-in Appliances
- Optional Systems
- Lawn Sprinklers
- Swimming Pools and Equipment
- Outbuildings
- Outdoor Cooking Equipment
- Gas Lines
- Fire Protection Equipment
- Security System
A home inspection should not be confused with an appraisal, a municipal code inspection, an environmental audit, or a homeowner’s warranty.
The home inspector’s job is primarily one of education. The goal of a home inspection is to provide the consumer with a better understanding of the physical condition of a home so they can make well-informed decisions. It is also the inspector’s role to keep his findings in perspective for the buyer. After an inspection is completed, a written report is prepared. The report provides an assessment of all features inspected in the home.
Home inspections should also highlight the positive aspects of a home. In fact, many of the home inspector’s observations or recommendations can help dispel home purchaser anxieties and provide useful repair suggestions.
A complete home inspection should cover all of the major systems of a house, including structure, exterior, roofing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing and interior. At minimum, an inspection should meet the Standards of Practice of the American Society of Home Inspectors® (ASHI®) and the Texas Association of Real Estate Inspectors (TAREI).
Consumers should be very careful when shopping for a home inspector. Home inspection companies that offer to do repair work,or that recommend repair companies to do the work should be avoided.
