Faq’s

Texas Home Inspector

Common Home Inspection Questions

Faq’s – Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a home inspection cost?

Home Inspection costs vary but could be anywhere in the $375-$400+ range for most homes. Pricing also depends on if you’re getting just the home inspection or if there are other things needed such as a WDI inspection, a pool/spa inspection, a sewer scope or other ancillary Services.

Is it worth it to get a home inspection?

YES! You are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars or even millions on a home. It is worth it to get a professional to check all systems and components to ensure they are working properly and that they were built accordingly. We’ll give you a detailed report of any deficiencies noted with pictures. Oftentimes, this can help save you costly repairs down the road on items that you may not have discovered without an inspection. A home inspection should always be performed.

How long does a home inspection take?

Like the cost, the length of time it takes to complete a home inspection also varies. Larger homes and very old homes take longer because there is more to inspect. Homes with pier and beam foundations also take longer as our home inspectors will need to go through the crawlspace. Typical times are about 1 hour per 1000 sq ft.

Do I have to be there during the Inspection?

It is not required that you attend the home inspection. In fact, it is recommended that you not be there during the actual inspection portion. We set aside time at the end of the inspection to go over our findings in summary and answer any questions you may have. We will issue you a detailed report including photos within 24 hours with our findings. I’m happy to discuss questions after the fact as well so even being there is optional and totally up to you.

Is it possible for a house to “Fail” an inspection?

The inspection is designed to tell you what needs to be repaired on the house. There may be some requirements that the house needs to meet in order for your financial lender to lend you the money for the home. This does not mean that the house has “failed” the inspection and will not be able to be sold.

What happens if there are problems found during the inspection?

There are potential problems that can come up during inspections. The seller of the home is not automatically required to repair any problems that the inspector finds. As the buyer, you can negotiate for the repairs to be made before you buy the home. If the seller is not willing to do the repairs for you, your realtor can use the information in our report to discuss negotiations for possible financial concessions.

How should I prepare for an inspection?

1.Clean the house

2. Remove or crate your pets

3. Make sure all your light bulbs work

4. Make sure dishwasher, oven and microwave are empty

5. Make sure everything is accessible. (Attic, crawlspace, electrical panels, garage outlets, water heaters, etc)

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a professional consulting service that determines the present condition of the home’s major systems, based on a visual inspection of accessible features. It focuses on the performance of the home, rather than cosmetic, code or design issues. Inspections are often performed during a real estate transaction but may be done anytime.

A home inspection is:

  • An in-field evaluation and professional opinion of the performance of the readily accessible installed systems in a home at one point in time
  • Primarily a visual examination
  • Intended to identify components that are significantly deficient, unsafe or near the end of their life
  • Documented in a written report

A home inspection is not:

  • An insurance policy, guarantee or warranty on the home
  • An invasive or destructive exercise
  • Intended to identify concealed defects
  • A code or design review
  • Intended to predict future performance or life expectancy
  • An environmental review or energy audit

Components included:

  • Roof
  • Structure
  • Exterior
  • Electrical system
  • Heating and Air Conditioning system
  • Plumbing system
  • Insulation and Air/Vapour Barriers
  • Interior
  • Mechanical and Natural Ventilation systems

What’s excluded:

  • Cosmetics
  • Code, bylaw and building regulation issues
  • Outbuildings
  • Swimming pools and spas
  • Specialty systems including telephone, cable TV, alarm systems

Can I attend the inspection?

Absolutely. We encourage clients to attend. The inspection is a personalized course in home ownership.

Do you tell us whether to buy the house?

No, we provide you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. We understand that the condition of the home is one of many critical pieces of the puzzle when buying a property.

What kind of report do I get?

Our clear, easy-to-read report includes photos and color illustrations and is delivered electronically the same day of the inspection.

What areas do you cover?

We cover Austin, TX and the surrounding areas. From Waco to Kyle, TX

What are 3 things to inspect on the inside of a house?

  1. Heating system
  2. Central air conditioning system (temperature permitting)
  3. Interior plumbing and electrical systems
  4. Roof and rain gutters
  5. Attic, including visible insulation
  6. Walls
  7. Ceilings
  8. Floors
  9. Windows and doors
  10. Foundation
  11. Basement
  12. Structural components

What are the most common problems found in home inspections?

  1. Faulty wiring. …
  2. Roof problems. …
  3. Heating/cooling system defects. …
  4. Plumbing issues. …
  5. Inadequate insulation and ventilation in attic. …
  6. Whole house is poorly maintained. …
  7. Poor drainage around the structure. …
  8. Air and water penetrating cracks and window perimeters at exterior.

What's not included in a home inspection?

Inspectors won’t tell you if you’re getting a good deal on the home or offer an opinion on the sale price. The goal of a home inspection is to objectively uncover issues with the home itself so you can make an informed decision about going through with the sale. It’s distinct from the appraisal

Purchasing a home can indeed be a daunting process. While a home inspection is intended to offer reassurance, it can sometimes amplify stress. The sheer volume of information presented, including written reports, checklists, photos, environmental data, and the inspector’s commentary during the assessment, can feel overwhelming, especially when combined with the seller’s disclosures and your own observations. Here’s how to navigate this situation:

  1. Relax: Understand that the majority of your inspection findings will likely involve maintenance suggestions, projected lifespans of various components, and minor imperfections. While these insights are valuable, the critical issues typically fall into these categories:
    • Major Defects: These are serious structural failures.
    • Issues Leading to Major Defects: Examples include minor leaks that can potentially lead to significant problems.
    • Factors Affecting Financing, Occupancy, or Insurance: Conditions that could impact your ability to obtain financing, legally live in the home, or insure it.
    • Safety Hazards: Such as exposed, live electrical components.
  2. Prioritize and Address: Focus on addressing items within these four categories. Often, even significant problems can be resolved at a reasonable cost, safeguarding both property and well-being, particularly in the second and fourth categories.
  3. Seller Expectations: Recognize that sellers are typically honest and might be unaware of certain defects. Understand that they aren’t obligated to fix everything highlighted in the report. No dwelling is without imperfections. It’s important to maintain perspective. Avoid jeopardizing the deal over inconsequential matters.
  4. Balanced Approach: It’s crucial not to insist on sellers rectifying issues of deferred maintenance, conditions that have already been disclosed, or minor, nit-picky concerns. Keep in mind that perfection is not a realistic expectation.

By focusing on addressing the most significant concerns and maintaining a balanced viewpoint, you can navigate the inspection process with greater ease and confidence.

Texas Home Inspector Common Quesions

Call Now!