FAQ
Q: What is a home inspection?
A: home inspection is an objective visual examination of the condition of the physical structure and different systems of a house by a trained and certified professional. Most often performed during the sale or purchase of a home, the home inspection is like a doctor’s physical check-up, identifying areas of concern as well as valuable maintenance for the future of the home. The results of the inspection are then carefully documented and delivered in a written report that is provided to the client, which can then be used to make informed decisions about a home sale or negotiating a pending home purchase.
Q: How long does the inspection take?
A: The average home inspection takes between 2-3 hours. Older and larger homes can take longer. Putting together the report after the physical inspection takes a fair bit of additional time, but that will be done later, off-site.
Q: At what point in the home buying process do I hire a home inspector?
A: 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.
Q: Why can't I do it myself?
A: Certified inspector is familiar with all the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance, and home safety. They know how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.
Even experienced homeowners, do-it-yourselfers or a friend or relative that is knowledgeable about homebuilding or maintenance is likely to lack the knowledge and expertise that a professional home inspector brings. Additionally, whether you are buying or selling, you are in the midst of what can be a very emotional process. Most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective about a house they really want. Even those that don’t own a home inspection business will advise you that it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional home inspector.
Q: What if the report reveals problems?
A: No house is perfect. Problems are found in every house. This 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 defects are discovered, a seller may agree to help with repairs.
Every problem has a solution. Solutions vary from a simple fix of the component to adjusting the purchase price. Having a home inspection allows problems to be revealed and appropriately considered before the sale closes.
Q: Should I plan to attend the inspection?
A: It’s not required, but it is certainly recommended. You are encouraged to follow along for all or part of the inspection and ask as many questions as you like. It is a great opportunity to see first-hand what potential issues exist and learn to better identify maintenance needs in the future. Everything covered in the physical inspection will be in your report, with plenty of detailed photos to help you understand and remember specific items. If you can’t be there for the inspection, Kyle can meet with you to go over the report in person or talk you through any questions or concerns you may have on the phone.
Q: What does a ProVision Inspection include?
A: A ProVision Home Inspection covers the inspection requirements of the Kentucky/Indiana Standards of Practice as well as the more thorough requirements of the leading trade organization, InterNACHI, (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors). This is what ProVision inspects:
The Roof: Roof covering, roof structure, roof vents, chimneys, skylights, gutters, downspouts, and flashing.
The Exterior: Wall cladding, flashing, trim, eaves, soffits, fascia, windows, doors, decks, stairs, stoops, porches, railings, surrounding vegetation, grading, drainage, driveways, retaining walls, and walkways.
Garages and Carports (and other outbuildings by special arrangement)
The Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, steps, stairways, balconies, railings, counters, cabinets, windows, and doors.
Structural Components: Foundations, basements, crawlspaces, attics, roof structure, piers, beams, and columns.
Plumbing System
Electric System
Heating and Cooling Systems
Fireplaces
Sump Pump
Water and Electric shut-offs
Safety Systems: Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers
Insulation
Attic and Crawl Space Ventilation
Built-In Kitchen Appliances: Dishwasher, range, range hood, oven, cooktop, microwave, trash compactor, garbage disposal, washer, dryer.
Yes, that’s a long list! It is possible some of these items might not be accessible at the time of inspection. If any of these elements can’t safely or reasonably be inspected, we will let you know in the report and ideally in person.