What is a home inspection?

"A home inspection is an objective, visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house from the roof to the foundation"

 

ORDER AN INSPECTION

 

Why do I need a home inspection?

 

The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you should learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs, builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a clearer understanding of the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.  If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

 

What does it include?

 

The standard home inspector's report will review the condition of the home's heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structure.

 

How much will it cost?

 

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending upon the size of the house, its age, and possible additional services, such as septic, well, or radon testing. However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector's qualifications, including experience, training, and professional affiliations, as a guide.

 

CHECK OUR PRICING             ORDER NOW

 

 

Why can't I do it myself?

 

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she knows how the home's system and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

 

Can a house fail an inspection?

 

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what may need major repair or replacement.

 

How do I find a home inspector?

 

Ask friends or business acquaintances who have been satisfied with and can recommend home inspectors they have used. In addition, the names of local inspectors can be found in the Yellow Pages. Real estate agents and brokers are also familiar with the service, and should be able to provide you with a list of names, so you can make your own choice.

Whatever your referral source, make sure the home inspector is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors  (ASHI) to be assured of his or her professional qualifications, experience, and business ethics. A list of ASHI members in your area is available by calling: 800-743-ASHI and at Find An Inspector, WWW.ASHI.org

 

What is the American Society of Home Inspectors?

 

For 28 years, ASHI has worked to build consumer awareness of home inspection and to enhance the professionalism of its membership. The ASHI Standards of Practice have served as the home inspector's performance guideline, universally recognized and accepted by professional and government authorities alike. Copies of the Standards are available free from ASHI, or your local ASHI inspector. ASHI sponsors technical seminars to further the education of home inspectors, and serves as a public interest group by providing accurate and helpful consumer information to homebuyers. 

 

Who belongs to ASHI?

 

Members of ASHI are independent professional home inspectors who have met the most rigorous technical and experience requirements in effect today. An ASHI Member must have passed two written technical exams, and have performed a minimum of 250 professional, fee-paid home inspections conducted in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice. ASHI Members are required to follow the Society's Code of Ethics, which prohibits them from engaging in conflict of interest activities that might compromise their objectivity, and to obtain continuing education credits in order to keep current with the latest in technology, materials and professional skills.

 

When do I call a home inspector?

 

A home inspector is typically contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

 

Do I have to be there?

 

While it's not required for you to be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions directly, as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain it.

 

What if the report reveals problems?

 

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may make repairs if major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you.

 

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

 

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You will also have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will have that information for future reference.    

For 31 years, the American Society of Home Inspectors? has worked to build consumer awareness of home inspection and to enhance the professionalism of its membership. ASHI is a not-for profit professional organization. Today 6,000 members strong, with stringent requirements for achieving and continuing membership, ASHI represents the best of the profession.

 

About  Colorado Professional Inspections Colorado Professional Inspections/ECO-SPECT was established in 2000 by president and founder Bruce Czech (ASHI #207435), who has completed over 2500 home inspections. The company was born out of desire to create source for unbiased home purchase information. In 2007, CPI was expanded the addition of ECO-SPECT, an energy audit, rating and consulting company.  Our goal is "excellence in home inspection/audits". We achieve this every day by spending more time on our inspections/audits, staying current with the latest inspection/audit techniques, and fulfilling continuing education requirements. Our inspections/audits are the most thorough available. Our reports are easy to read and understand and will help homeowners make informed purchase decisions. In addition, we are committed to making homes more energy efficient and comfortable.

ORDER NOW