At Integrity Home Evaluations, we do a lot of inspections for many different people, and we get asked a lot of questions.
That being said, there are some questions that we get asked frequently, so we wrote down the answers to these questions so that when it comes time for you to get your own home inspection, you are prepared!
Why is Getting a Home Inspection Important?
As a home buyer, getting a home inspection by a professional home inspector is important to provide you with unbiased information you need to make a well informed decision on how you are spending your hard earned money. It is very easy (and understandable) to fall in love with a home.
As the buyer, it can be easy to overlook some very serious issues that only a professional will find. Items such as moisture intrusion, electrical issues, HVAC problems, or mold in the attic, just to name a few.
As a home seller, either before listing or even as part of your ongoing maintenance, a home inspection can help you eliminate potential issues with your home that you may not realize are a health or safety concern, or even just a minor maintenance item.
A home inspection can also help provide you with items that are deficient or nearing the end of their expected life. Some items may be simple and inexpensive to repair which can help you sell your home quicker and for more money.
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
The average fee of a home inspection is approximately $365.00, however this can vary based on various factors.Â
Pricing depends on:
square footage
age
location
type of foundation
Does Everyone Need a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is for everyone!
Buyers and sellers of existing homes, buyers considering purchasing a flipped home (there’s more to shiny stainless steel appliances and granite countertops), buyers of new construction (surprisingly many issues typically).
Do I Need to be Present for the Home Inspection (as the Buyer)?
While it is recommended, it is not absolutely necessary.
It is always recommended as it is a great way to learn about the home and see firsthand any issues that may be present. However –
I am always reachable and available for going over any issues and –
my inspection report is very detailed! I add several pictures and video to my reports and you will receive one of the best inspection reports in the industry.
Do I Need to be Present for the Home Inspection (as the Owner)?
No. Typically the owner of the home is not present.
While it does not affect how I inspect, it can be an uncomfortable situation for the buyer.
It is a very stressful time for everyone and many people (especially those who have lived in the home for a long time) take it very personal when the prospective buyer starts discussing all the things they are going to change.
What Are the Most Common Issues Found During Home Inspections?
Some of the most common issues found in a home inspection are:
moisture in basements due to gutters/downspouts/grading
mold in attics due to improper ventilation
electrical issues including unsafe wiring practices
high radon levels
Should I Get a Radon Inspection?
Getting a radon inspection is a personal choice and I always direct the client to perform their own research as I don’t want them to think that I am trying to separate them from their money.
I provide links on my website to help them with their research. I believe strongly in having this test done, but I understand not everyone does.
If it were me, I would test. Radon can be high in the house next door but within acceptable levels in the home you are considering purchasing. And it doesn’t discriminate!
Radon is found in new or old, basements, crawlspaces, or slabs, homes with a walk-out, it just doesn’t matter. It’s also easily tested and remediated if needed.
I’m Concerned about Mold, Should I Have that Inspected?
When it comes to mold, one must realize that mold is everywhere. Even if you can’t see it, it’s there. But that doesn’t mean it’s bad or toxic.
However, it also doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t test for it. The EPA says that if you see mold, there is no reason to test, it should be remediated, which I agree with.
What about what you can’t see? Does the home have a finished basement? Are the walls covered in insulation? Do you have someone in your family, or will there be someone in the home that is sensitive to mold?
If so, I do recommend testing the air to understand the levels of mold spores in the home, and what type is present.
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