10 Frequently Asked questions about Home Inspections

How does a home inspection work?
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In the process of performing a home inspection, a professional examines the structure and systems of a house, identifying any issues that need to be addressed.  This gives you a better idea of the condition of the property you are buying

What is the purpose of a home inspection?

By inspecting a property before you buy it, you can identify any potential problems and, if necessary, negotiate the terms of the sale. The home inspector can also give you information about the property like locations of water meters, electrical panels and main shut-offs, air filter sizes, and other preventative maintenance tips to keep the property in great condition for years to come.

What is the cost of a home inspection?

On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $500 for a home inspection, depending on the size and age of the property and the services offered. Some services may have an additional fee, so make sure you understand the scope of the inspection and what will be an additional fee. 

What is the average time it takes for a home inspection?

Home inspections typically take between two and four hours, depending on the size and condition of the home. A new build home will usually be faster to inspect than an older home or a home that is furnished or occupied.

What does the inspector check?

Home inspectors typically examine a property's foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and appliances. They also inspect the property's exterior, including the garage, siding, deck, and the surrounding ground's grading and drainage.

Is it necessary for me to attend the home inspection?

Attending the home inspection is not required, but it is strongly recommended as it allows you to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the property. If you're unable to attend, Hoffman Home inspection reports include pictures, videos, and descriptions of any issues that should be addressed . The inspector will also be available by phone, text, or email to answer any questions or go over your inspection report with you.

If the home inspector finds any problems, can he or she fix them?

The home inspector's role is to identify any problems with a property and provide a report. It's up to you, the buyer, to negotiate any necessary repairs. In most jurisdictions the inspector is not allowed to make repairs to the property. However, your home inspector can usually provide contacts for contractors or other companies that can give estimates or make repairs to the issues found in the inspection report.

Does a home inspection follow the same rules as a building code inspection?

It is not intended to ensure that a property meets building codes; a home inspection is merely a visual inspection. In order to ensure that the property meets the minimum standards for safety and construction, a building code inspection is typically conducted by a building code official during construction or renovations.

Is it possible for a home inspection to guarantee that there are no problems with the house?

It is possible that some issues may not be visible or may not be identified during a home inspection because it is a visual only examination of the property. some issues may be able to be seen under certain conditions like heavy rain or the location of furniture or personal items. At Hoffman Home Inspections we try our best to find these issues by doing things like filling all sinks, showers and tubs, entering all accessible attic spaces and crawl spaces, and using thermal imaging cameras to find signs of moisture or leaks even if they have been painted over or haven't persisted long enough to have caused visible damage 

Is it possible to request a specific home inspector?

A home inspector can be requested in advance or from a list of qualified inspectors provided by the seller or real estate agent. Or you can find your own home inspector by a web search or a referral by a friend or family member. It is important to choose a home inspector with experience, knowledge, and  professionalism. Not all Home Inspectors offer the same services or use the same tools, so make sure your inspector offers the services you want like thermal imaging, pool or septic inspections.