You have Questions, and IM Home Inspections has answers!
Why should I have a Home Inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you will want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. An IM Home Inspection may identify the need for repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence. A seller may wish to have an inspection to learn of potential issues now, before your sale is held up later.
The house I am buying was recently remodeled, do I still need an inspection?
Yes, a remodel may or may not only cover cosmetic issues. A home inspection covers the home components beyond fresh paint and new countertops. Condition of the electrical, plumbing, attic roof, and foundation, for example, are components that still need to be inspected.
Do I really need a home inspection for new construction?
Your newly built home is likely to have all of the latest energy-saving features and comforts that you could ever want. But it’s always a good idea to get a home inspection, even on a newly constructed home.
There may be undisclosed issues or shoddy workmanship. Just because a home is brand-new doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s been built with the highest workmanship standards in mind. The plumbing could have serious issues, the roof may be installed incorrectly, there may be issues with the windows and so forth.
Just like a regular home inspection, you won’t know about these problems unless the home is inspected. Even a single careless contractor or a tiny mistake made when building the home can cause serious damage. It’s possible the home may only be up to minimum standards. See our blog New Construction Inspection Nightmares for some examples of items found in new homes.
I’m buying the house “As-Is”. What good is a home inspection if the seller won’t be making repairs?
Even though you are buying a house As-Is, you should still know what that means. Are you getting a good deal? Or are you buying an inexpensive house with a lot of expensive problems? A home inspection will help you determine how much work lies ahead.
What does a Home Inspection cover?
A Home Inspection is a visual and non-invasive examination of the structure and components of a house. Our reports will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; visible insulation; visible issues pertaining to walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors; the foundation, basement, and structural components. For a more detailed list, click here.
Will You Do the Repairs?
No, under California Law sec 7197 (a)(1) it is illegal for a Home Inspector to work on a house they have inspected within 12 months of inspection. If any home inspector offers to also do repairs, run!
Should I attend the Inspection?
While not required, We highly recommend our clients make time to join us on our visit. This allows you to observe the inspection, ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain them. After you have seen the property with one of our inspectors, you will find the written report easier to understand.
Do you inspect roofs and crawl spaces?
Yes. Read more about roof inspections here.
Read more about foundation inspections here.
When will I get the written report?
Your report will be emailed within 24 hours.
How long does the inspection take?
The average inspection takes 2 to 4 hours, however, there are numerous variables that can make the inspection take less time or much longer. Read more here: How long does a Home Inspection take?
How important is it to take action on the recommendations in the report?
It is essential that you take action on the recommendations. If your report has a recommendation for further evaluation by a licensed professional, do it BEFORE the end of your contingency period. For example, if there is a recommendation to have something repaired or evaluated by a licensed plumber, you should forward your report to a licensed plumber immediately to get their opinion. They can provide you with an estimate for the cost of repairs, or the estimated life remaining of a component. IF YOU DO NOT ACT BEFORE THE END OF YOUR CONTINGENCY PERIOD AND BUY THE HOUSE, YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST TO REPAIR THESE ITEMS WHICH MAY BE SUBSTANTIAL.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask for the courtesy of 24-hour cancellation notice. Our inspectors are paid for their time just like any employee. By law, California employers must pay “reporting time“ when an employee is “required to report for work and does report, but is not put to work or is furnished less than half said employee’s usual or scheduled day’s work.” Wage Order 7-2001 (Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 8, § 11070). To comply with this law, there is a 30% cancellation fee for any inspection canceled within 24 hours of the inspection time.
How can I pay for my inspection if I won’t be at the appointment?
You will receive a confirmation email as soon as the appointment is scheduled. The email will contain a link to securely pay online. You can also call our office to pay ahead of time with a credit card. Reports not marked paid are not viewable. Avoid delays by making your payment ahead of the inspection!