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Local Home Inspection in Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Estes Park, Boulder, Longmont,
Larimer, and Weld
Tips on Reading an Inspection Report
There are many styles of reports used by property
inspectors, including the checklist, computer generated
using inspection programs, and the narrative style.
Some reports are delivered on site and some may take
as long as 4 - 6 days for delivery. All reporting systems
have pros and cons. The most important issue with an
inspection report is the descriptions given for each
item or component.
A report that indicates the condition as "Good", "Fair"
or "Poor" without a detailed explanation is vague and
can be easily misinterpreted. An example of a vague
condition would be: Kitchen Sink: Condition - Good,
Fair, or Poor.
None of these descriptions gives the homeowner an
idea about what is wrong. Does the sink have a
cosmetic problem? Does the home have a plumbing
problem? A good report should supply you with
descriptive information on the condition of the site and
home. An example of a
descriptive condition(s)
is:
A narrative description
might also include a
recommendation for
repair. Narrative reports
without
recommendations for
repairing deficient items
may be difficult to
comprehend, should your knowledge of construction
be limited.
Take the time and become familiar with your report.
Should the report have a legend, key, symbols or
icons, read and understand them thoroughly. The
more information provided about the site and home,
the easier to understand the overall condition.
At the end of the inspection your inspector may
provide a summary with a question and answer
period. Use this opportunity to ask questions
regarding terms or conditions that you may not be
familiar with. A good inspector should be able to
explain the answers to your questions. If for some
reason a question cannot be answered at the time of
the inspection, the inspector should research the
question and obtain the answer for you. For instance,
if the inspector's report states that the concrete
foundation has common cracks, be sure to ask, "Why
are they common?" The answer you should receive
will be along these lines: common
cracks are usually due to normal
concrete curing and or shrinkage.
The inspector's knowledge and
experience is how the size and
characteristics of the cracking is
determined.
We recommend that you
accompany your inspector
through the entire inspection if
possible. This helps you to
understand the condition of the
home and the details of the report.
Read the report completely and understand the
condition of the home you are about to purchase.
After all, it is most likely one of the largest
investments you will ever make.