For your convenience, we have included some home inspection facts pulled from our most common customer questions. At Ron Lane Home Inspections, we have answers for you.
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The Home Inspection Facts
Q: What is a home inspection?
A: A real estate inspection is a non-technically exhaustive, limited visual survey and basic performance evaluation of the systems and components of a building using normal controls and does not require the use of specialized tools or procedures. The purpose of the inspection is to provide the client with information regarding the general condition of the residence at the time of the inspection. A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. A standard report would cover the condition of the home’s heating and cooling systems, electric, interior plumbing, the roof, attic, visible insulation, ceiling, walls, floors, windows and doors, the foundation and structural components.
Q: How long will the home inspection take?
A: Most home inspections take between 3-4+ hours to complete. There are several factors that can vary the home inspection time, the size of the house, the age and condition of the home.
Q: Should I be present during the Home Inspection?
A: We prefer having you present during the home inspection if possible. If you cannot or don’t want to be present during the entire home inspection, then being there to go over the report at the end of the home inspection is recommended. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you’ve seen the home first hand through the inspector’s eyes. If you cannot be at the home at all during the inspection I will be available for you over the phone.
Q: What if problems are uncovered during the home inspection process?
A: If a home inspection identifies a problem it doesn’t mean you should not buy the home, no house is perfect, sometimes not even brand new homes. The reality is that most homes have some problems that will be listed as in need of repair or deficient. It may be due to age related deterioration, changes in building standards, or latent defects. This is when time becomes critical. Remember we will provide the home inspection report “at the time of the inspection” not at a later date. It is up to you to use the report to make decisions to try to negotiate with the seller to have them repaired before closing. Or perhaps the seller will lower the price of the home. In the end, the decision is yours, but knowing potential problems, before you buy gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.
Q: Why should I have a home inspection?
A: If you are a buyer, to give you peace of mind. The house you are considering purchasing is one of the biggest investments you will ever make. In making a decision of this magnitude, it’s important to make it with confidence. Having your home inspected by Ron Lane Home Inspections, PLLC reduces your risks and protects your investment.
Q: How much does a Home Inspection cost?
A: Home Inspection fees take into consideration several factors, primarily based on the size, foundation type, age, location and any additional services requested. The cost should not be the only deciding factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. An experienced and knowledgeable home inspector is well worth the cost if you consider how low the price is compared to price of the home or other costs associated with the home purchase.
Q: Can a home inspector fix the problems that are discovered during the home inspection?
A: No. Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) under Professional Conduct and Ethics states a home inspector shall not accept employment to repair, replace, maintain or upgrade systems or components of property on which the home inspector has performed an inspection within 12 months of the date of the home inspection.