What is a home inspection and what does it include?
A home inspection consists of a visual inspection of all the major components of a home. Items included in the inspection are structural components, roofing, roof and foundation ventilation, insulation, central air conditioning, heating, plumbing system, electrical systems, exterior, garage, interiors, venting systems, built-in kitchen appliances, and recall alert information.
How much will my inspection cost?
Our inspection price is based on the square footage and age of the home. Our inspections start at $395 for homes under 1,000 square feet.
When should I schedule a home inspection?
Once you have a signed Purchase Agreement. Your contract will stipulate the contingency period for inspection.
When will I receive report?
The same day as your inspection. By early evening at the latest but typically within 2 to 3 hours after the inspection ends.
How long will my inspection take?
Our inspections last approximately three hours. Each house is different and, depending on size, condition and on-site discussion, it can take more or less time.
When should I arrive for my Review?
Plan to arrive at the start of the last hour of the inspection for your Review. That will allow ample time, approximately 30 to 45 min, to discuss the inspector’s findings and get your questions answered. If you come earlier than that there’s a good chance the inspector won’t be ready to talk with you yet. They collect and organize a lot of information to prepare for your Review.
Who can attend the inspection Review?
Please limit attendees to decision-makers only. For example, you and your agent. If you wish to include immediate family members such as children or parents, please keep the group as small as possible to make the most out of your time with the inspector. We are guests in the home and not able to accommodate large groups. If you want a contractor or others (such as friends or extended family) to see the property, you will need to set up a separate time through your agent. Many folks schedule it immediately after the inspection to make it a seamless process.
Is the seller required to fix all of the problems identified in the inspection report?
No, the seller is not required to fix any problems identified. The purpose of the inspection is simply to inform you of the condition of the property, with the primary emphasis on major systems. If problems are found, you may decide to use this information to negotiate with the seller. In most cases, a mutual decision regarding problems can be reached between the buyer and seller.
If I’m selling my house, should I have a home inspection before it goes on the market?
Yes. When you choose to sell your home, one of the largest concerns will be “How do I sell my home faster and for more money?” Having a pre-listing home inspection will show you just how to do this! Having the facts about your home, being pro-active and in the driver’s seat, and using the inspection report as negotiation power will instantly give you the advantage!
Can a home fail inspection?
No. Your inspection report will simply provide a list of all current conditions that exist with the property. The purpose of the inspection is to provide the facts of the home and to indicate what may need to be repaired or replaced, not issue a “pass” or “fail”. Every customer’s needs and criteria are different.
How do I prepare my house for a home inspection?
Read our common-sense guide to How To Prepare Your Home For Inspection.
How do I pay for the inspections?
By credit card through a link we email to you at the time of scheduling. If you cannot attend the inspection, payment and agreement must be received before you will be able to access your report. You can also pay cash or by check at the inspection.
Do I have to attend the inspection?
No, you are not required to attend the inspection. However, it is recommended that you attend as much as possible and at minimum, the review. Seeing what the inspector sees and going over the detailed inspection report with your inspector will allow you to have a better understanding of the report findings.
However, if you are not available to attend, a telephone review is the next best option. This still allows you to discuss the report findings with the inspector and understand what the inspector concluded.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand things can and do change in real estate. Our goal is to always be fair with our customers and our employees. If you need to cancel the inspection please call our office at least 48 hours in advance to avoid a $50.00 charge. Last notice cancellations leave a hole in the inspector’s calendar that can’t be filled by another customer. Same day cancellations will be charged $50.00, no exceptions (unless it is an emergency). If the inspection is rescheduled within 30 days, the full cancellation fee will be applied to the inspection fee.
What insurance does Heartland Inspections carry and why is it important to me?
Heartland carries Errors and Omissions (E&O) and General Liability insurance. E&O insurance protects you in the unlikely event we do not report a major defect in your home. General Liability protects you in the event we accidentally damage something in the home.
Is a home inspection a code compliance inspection?
No. The emphasis of a home inspection is on health, safety and major systems and components. Municipal and state building codes vary according to what codes were in place when the home was built. Most municipalities require a minimum of code updates when major remodeling projects are done and some when a home is listed for sale.