Inspection Information
How a home inspection works:
How long will it take to complete the inspection? The length of time to complete an inspection depends on the age, size, and condition of the property. An average inspection will take two to three hours on-site, in addition to allowing you a 30-minute walk through and a preliminary review of the report with the inspector.
Should I be there?
It is our recommendation that you attend the home inspection if at all possible. We would encourage you to complete a walk through with the inspector after the inspection has been completed. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions about the report and address any concerns you may have in regards to the property. If you are a purchaser, this allows you to gain valuable insight into the home. If you are the seller, it provides additional insight into the current condition as you prepare the home for the market. Also, you will have a better understanding of the inspection report.
Finalizing the report:
In addition to the on-site inspection, the inspector will spend approximately three hours at his office reviewing and preparing the formal, comprehensive inspection report. This completed report will provide any additional information, recommendations and explanations which will enable you to make informed decisions regarding the property inspected.
Advantages of the report being completed off-site following the inspection:
- The inspector's time on-site is not consumed with detailing information for the report but rather allows him to focus on the job of inspecting the premises
- He can research any areas of concern and fully address them in the report
- Allows him to organize the inspection data and his recommendations
- Maximizes the inspector's ability to provide a fully detailed report complete with problems identified and preventative maintenance recommendations, as well as suggestions for potential improvements
- Gives you, the consumer, peace of mind that you have received top-quality information for your investment
Much of a home's components such as electrical, plumbing, or insulation are concealed and not open to a visual inspection. Elements which further restrict the inspector's ability to view all that should be viewed are weather conditions and furniture.
A determination of the condition of hidden elements can only be surmised based on visible surface evidence. Also, components that are not operating are generally not tested.
A thorough inspection of all accessible and visible parts of the property will be conducted, and any limitations will be noted in the final, written inspection report.