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So You Won’t Be Surprised Tomorrow!
An inspection is a visual examination of the structure and systems of a building. If you are thinking of buying a home, condominium, mobile home, or commercial building, you should have it thoroughly inspected before the final purchase by an experienced and impartial professional inspector.
A complete inspection includes a visual examination of the building from top to bottom. The inspector evaluates and reports the condition of the structure, roof, foundation, drainage, heating system, central air-conditioning system, visible insulation, walls, windows, and doors. Only those items that are visible and accessible by normal means are included in the report.
The best time to consult the inspector is right after you’ve made an offer on your new building. The real estate contract usually allows for a grace period to inspect the building. Ask your professional agent to include this inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection.
No. A professional inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your prospective real estate purchase. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection. An inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a building, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items will be in need of minor or major repairs or replacement.
If the inspector finds problems in a building, it does not necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy it, only that you will know in advance what type of repairs to anticipate. A seller may be willing to make repairs because of significant problems discovered by the inspector. If your budget is tight, or if you do not wish to become involved in future repair work, you may decide that this is not the property for you. The choice is yours.
If The Report Is Favorable, Did I Really Need An Inspection?
Definitely! Now you can complete your purchase with peace of mind about the condition of the property and its equipment and systems. You may have learned a few things about your property from the inspection report, and will want to keep that information for your future reference. Above all, you can rest assured that you are making a well-informed purchase decision and that you will be able to enjoy or occupy your new home or building the way you want.
The purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the largest
single investments you will ever make. You should know exactly what to
expect --- both indoors and out -- in terms of needed and future repairs
and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural
problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic roof leakage problem
or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector interprets
these and other clues, then presents a professional opinion as to the condition
of the property so you can avoid unpleasant surprises afterward. Of course,
an inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a building, as
well as the type of maintenance needed to keep it in good shape. After
the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property
you are about to purchase, and be able to make your decision confidently.
As a seller, if you have owned your
building for a period of time, an inspection can identify potential problems
in the sale of your building and can recommend preventive measures which
might avoid future expensive repairs.
The inspection fee for a typical single-family house or commercial building varies geographically, as does the cost of housing, similarly, within a geographic area the inspection fees charged by different inspection services may vary depending upon the size of the building, particular features of the building, age, type of structure, etc. However, the cost should not be a factor in the decision whether or not to have a physical inspection. You might save many times the cost of the inspection if you are able to have the seller perform repairs based on significant problems revealed by the inspector. Consult your professional agent for guidance.
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is a good idea. By following the inspector through the inspection, observing and asking questions, you will learn about the new building and get some tips on general maintenance. Information that will be of great help to you after you’ve moved in.
The California Real Estate Inspection Association, (CREIA), was established
in 1976 in California as a non-profit voluntary professional association.
CREIA has grown to over 400 members and candidates today. CREIA’s Standards
of Practice and professional Code of Ethics provides
the consumer with the assurance of quality and professionalism. Members
of CREIA are either owners or employees of professional building inspection
companies. Today CREIA has members throughout the state and is recognized
in California as the leading authority in the building inspection industry.
CREIA has established a high Standards
of Practice for the inspection profession that is used throughout the state
to ensure the buyer who retains a CREIA member of a complete and detailed
inspection and report.
All members must abide by these standards
and code of ethics. CREIA offers its members and
candidates continuing education in the latest building technology, training,
and materials to ensure the most professional inspection for the consumer.
CREIA acts as a public information service to real estate buyers and provides
technical support and training to realty agents, state agencies and other
related professions.
Many CREIA members have engineering,
architectural, or technical backgrounds. Most members have had experience
in various construction fields and are or have been building contractors.
Why do I need a Home Inspection