What to expect during a C&S Home Inspection?

John  the Owner of C&S Home Inspections and Certified professional home inspector  will come  to the property and perform a visual examination of all aspects of your home from the foundation to the roof; including:
-the physical structure of the house
-most systems of the house

What is included in a C&S Home Inspection?

All of my home inspection reports minimally cover information regarding the condition of the following (when visible and accessible):
-heating system
-central air conditioning systems
-interior plumbing
-electrical systems
-all visible aspects of the actual building, ie roof, attic, walls, cielings, and floors
-the foundation
-all visible structural components
To learn more details regarding  the report that C&S Home Inspections provides, The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of Practice (http://www.ashi.org/documents/pdf/standards.pdf)  and Code of Ethics (http://www.ashi.org/documents/pdf/standards.pdf) that outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report.

How will using C&S Home inspections benefit me?

Often, when walking into a home that you have “fallen in love with” and hope to purchase, you are unable to see potential problems. A professional certified home inspector comes into the house objectively, and makes an assessment of the true (and sometimes hidden) condition of the home. Before you make one of the largest financial investments you will probably make in your life, being completely aware of what you are purchasing and its true condition could potentially save you from serious financial troubles down the road. Armed with a full report, you will be able to make a more informed decision.
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.

What will a C&S Home Inspection cost me?

Do not let cost be THE factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection done or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as lead- based paint testing and Radon Screenings.
At C&S Home Inspections our prices start at $200 and go up from there depending on the size, age, and some other  possible variables regarding the property.

Couldn’t I assess the condition of my home on my own?

Unless you are a professional home inspector yourself, it is likely that you do not have the full scope of knowledge and experience that a professional has. A home inspector is trained to be familiar with all aspects of a home including home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. My personal experience and training has allowed me to have an understanding of the connection that all of these aspects have with each other, and how they affect the overall condition of the home.
Also, as mentioned above, sometimes the buyer of a house has an emotional connection to it; already envisioning it as a personal home. This emotional reaction can cloud  judgement and ability to see the true conditions of a house. As an objective inspector I offer an impartial and third party observation that you would otherwise be unable to attain.

Can a house fail a home inspection?

No. It’s not a test with a grade. It is simply a full and detailed report that offers a clear and impartial assessment of the condition of your home. The home inspection does not determine or affect market value. I will give suggestions on how to remedy any potential trouble spots I find, but would not make a determination of who is responsible to pay for these remedies, or if it affects value.

What is ASHI?

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.

Who belongs to ASHI?

ASHI is an organization of independent, professional home inspectors who are required to make a commitment, from the day they join as ASHI Associates, to conduct inspections in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, which prohibits engaging in conflict-of-interest activities that might compromise their objectivity. ASHI Associates work their way to ASHI Certified Inspector status as they meet rigorous requirements, including passing a comprehensive, written technical exam and performing a minimum of 250 professional, fee-paid home inspections conducted in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Mandatory continuing education helps the membership stay current with the latest in technology, materials and professional skills.

When do I call a home inspector?

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Do I have to be present for the inspection?

You are not required to be present for the inspection to occur as long as I have access and permission to be on the property. However, I would recommend making every effort to be there so you can have all of your questions answered, and see my observations first hand.

What if the report reveals problems?

It is very rare to have an inspection that does not at least reveal a potential problem or two. This is to be expected as no home that has been lived in is in a perfect and untouched condition. This does not mean you should avoid buying this particular house. It does allow you to understand how much potential work you may need to put into the house, and you will be able to decide if this work, time and extra money is worth it to you.

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

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 reference.