One Of The Best
Investments You Can Make by Kathy Scott
Whether you’re purchasing a new or existing home,
consider the benefits of a home inspection performed
by a certified or licensed inspector. The purchase
of a home is the biggest investment people make.
It not only involves acquiring a significant asset,
it may also mean taking on additional problems
as well. While home inspectors are limited in
their scope, they can offer peace of mind to a
new homeowner by assessing some of a home’s major
componenets.
Only 27 states require that a home inspector be
certified, licensed or registered with the secretary
of state. Fortunately, the American Society of
Home Inspectors (ASHI) is a national organization
that requires its members to pass various tests
and submit proof of at least 250 fee-paid home
inspections before being admitted. No other home
inspection organization requires such experience
as a condition of membership, which makes it a
great resource for borrowers looking for a good
inspector.
Even new homes need an objective look. Don’t rely
on your builder or a county inspector for a neutral
review. Use a separate and new set of eyes to
examine your home. A private standard home inspection
typically costs less than $500 and could save
you thousands.
Try to hire a home inspector who is a member of
ASHI. Ask for a list of features in and around
the home that will be inspected. The most common
areas examined include the structure, exterior,
roof, plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning,
interior, ventilation and fireplace.
Your home structure sits on a foundation that,
if cracked or sinking, could mean big repairs
in the future. Inspectors are trained to look
for signs of problems. They will review the exterior
– siding, flashing, trim, doors, decks, balconies
and porches, as well as examine the vegetation,
surface grading, drainage and retaining walls
that may adversely affect the structure.
Most mortgage companies require a roof inspection
if the home is over 10 years old. Your home inspector
should also take a look at the roof covering,
drainage systems, skylights, chimneys and flashing
in order to assure that it is properly constructed
to protect the home.
A visual inspection of a home’s plumbing can heed
a great deal of information. For instance, most
inspectors review the interior water supply, drainage,
waste and distribution systems including all fixtures
and faucets to insure they are working properly.
Water heating equipment, plumbing vents, fuel
storage and distribution systems are all included
in the inspection as well as pumps if applicable.
An inspection of the electrical system throughout
the home including service drops, conductors,
cables, equipment, grounding and main disconnects
could be vital. A home inspector should also be
able to insure there are a representative number
of lighting fixtures, switches, receptacles and
ground fault circuit interrupters. Your home’s
heating and cooling system, including any fireplaces,
will be inspected to insure each is working properly.
A home inspection’s final report should offer
a summary of the home from roof to foundation
with major repair suggestions and a list of potential
areas that may need attention in the future. The
summary should also identify problems and offer
suggestions for possible preventive measures.
Since many new homes offer a one-year warranty,
consider getting a second inspection with a different
inspector prior to the end of the term to assess
any issues that may have developed and could be
covered under the warranty.
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