What is a home inspection?
What does a home inspection include?
Why do I need a home inspection?
Can a house fail a home inspection?
What is ASHI?
Do I have to be there?
What if the report reveals problems?
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
What are common home defects that may be found during a Home Inspection?
What do I recieve after a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house,
from the roof to the foundation.
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The standard home inspector's report will cover the condition of the home's heating system;
central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems;
the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation,
basement and structural components.
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
that outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report.
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Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant
surprises and unexpected difficulties, you'll want to learn as much as you can about the newly
constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major
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.
If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest
preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make
repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.
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No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house.
It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies
local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe
its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.
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Since 1976, ASHI has worked to build consumer awareness of home inspection and to enhance
the professionalism of its membership. The ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics serves
as a performance guideline for home inspectors, and is universally recognized and accepted by many
professional and governmental bodies.
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While it's not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You
will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the
home and how to maintain it.
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No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't mean you should or shouldn't
buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you
don't want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major
problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
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Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You'll have learned many things
about your new home from the inspector*s written report, and will have that information for future.
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Many potential problems may be found during a home inspection. The 10 most common can be found here. Even More common issues can be found here.
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After a home inspection you will be given a report detailing all of the home's defects and other relevant
information. View a sample report.
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