homeinsp

Find an Inspector that You Trust

Choosing an ASHI / NYS licensed inspector means choosing someone you can trust to objectively and
independently provide you with a comprehensive analysis of the home’s major systems and
components—apart from anyone's interests other than your own.

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home,
from roof to foundation. A home inspection report or home inspection service is the equivalent of a
physical examination from your doctor. When problems or symptoms of problems are found, the inspector
may recommend further evaluation or remedies, making the home inspection cost well worth it.

What does a home inspection include?

A standard home inspection report summarizes findings from a visual inspection of the condition of the
subject home’s heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing
and electrical systems; roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors;
foundation, basement, and the visible structures of the home.

Why do I need a home inspection?

A home inspection summarizes the condition of a property, points out the need for major repairs and
identifies areas that may need attention in the near future. Buyers and sellers depend on an accurate
home inspection to maximize their knowledge of the property in order to make intelligent decisions before
executing an agreement for sale or purchase.

A home inspection points out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the maintenance that will be
necessary to keep it in good shape. After an inspection, both parties have a much clearer understanding
of the value and needs of the property.

For homeowners, an inspection may be used to identify problems in the making and to learn about
preventive measures, which might avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, an
inspection prior to placing your home on the market provides a better understanding of conditions which
may be discovered by the buyer's inspector, and provides you an opportunity to make repairs that will
make your home more desirable to potential buyers.

Can a house fail a home inspection?

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your home. It is not an
appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance to local
codes and standards. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house. A home inspection describes the
physical condition of a property and indicates what may need repair or replacement.

When do I call in the home inspector?

Before you sign the contract or purchase agreement, make your purchase obligation contingent upon the
findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer
and seller are obligated. Contact a home inspector immediately after the contract or purchase agreement
has been signed. Home inspectors are aware of the time constraints involved in purchase agreements
and most are available to conduct the required inspection within a few days.

Do I have to be there?

While it is not necessary for you to be present, it is always recommended that you make time to join the
inspector for their visit. This allows you to observe the inspector, 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 the inspector, you will find the written report easier to understand.

What if the report reveals problems?

No house is perfect. When the inspector identifies problems, it does not indicate you should not buy the
house. His findings serve to educate you in advance of the purchase about the condition of the property.
A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are discovered during an
inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this
information will be extremely valuable.

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an
inspection?

Yes. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence about the condition of the property and
all its equipment and systems. From the inspection, you will have learned many things about your new
home, and will want to keep that information for future reference.