Why do I need a Home Inspection ?

What is covered by the inspection ?

What is not covered by the inspection ?

Do you need to be present at the inspection ?

Our inspection service rates

Why do I need a Home Inspection ?

The purchase of a home is likely to be the largest purchase of a lifetime.  A home, in most cases, is also the best investment a person or family can make. That is providing one makes the purchase decision as an informed and knowledgeable buyer.

Under normal circumstances, the seller of a property must disclose ALL known defects. This gives the buyer a lot of rights. Most contracts specify that "all built-in appliances, electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, will be in working order and leak free when you take ownership". They often include the roof be leak free and broken glass and window seals be replaced. 

The only way to make sure you are getting everything you are entitled to, is to have the property professionally inspected BEFORE you release your investment [money]  to the seller.

The property may also contain unknown [to the seller] major defects what could significantly reduce the value of the property and expose you to expensive repairs or dangers after you move in. 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 that has already been corrected. 

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 under-standing of the property you are about to purchase, and be able to make your decision confidently.

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What is covered by the inspection ?

All of our inspections are carried out in conformance to standards established by the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors. This comprehensive visual inspection assesses the condition of over 100 components of the building and property. Major components include:

    · Lot and property 
    · Exterior structure 
    · Foundation 
    · Roofing 
    · Garage
    · Electrical Systems
    · Plumbing Systems
    · Heating and cooling systems
    · Insulation and ventilation
    · Appliances
    · Interior floors, walls, ceilings
    · Health and safety requirements checklist
    · Information of the operation and maintenance of your home for 
      as long as you own the home. We will be please to answer any 
      questions  you have about your home (operation, maintenance, 
      renovations and more). 

      Simply give us a call, or send an email. Please have available the report 
      number from page one of the Inspection Report for reference. 

For a complete listing of what is included, and not included in our inspection, view our Standards of Practice.

To learn more about common problems found during the inspection, see our Home Inspection Information Series.

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What is not covered by the inspection ?

The extensive examination of the home or building is primarily a visual inspection. Areas that are not visible (ie: inside walls) will not be inspected. That is to say that our inspection is non-invasive - we will not drill holes in finishes or remove wall sections. Similarly, basement finishing can obscure some or all or the interior foundation walls. Snow cover on a roof can hide the roof covering materials. Your Town & Country inspector is trained and experienced to look for and identify tell-tale clues to potential problems.

If hazards are present that pose a danger to the inspector, and to the client, these items will be noted and that area bypassed in the inspection. Hazards can include ice or snow of roofs, severe electrical hazards and vermin and pest infestations.

Your Town & Country inspector as well will not inspect septic systems, gas systems, alarms systems or other systems requiring specific licenses or skills. We can arrange inspections of these systems for you or refer you to a qualified representative.

For a complete listing of what is included, and not included in our inspection, view our Standards of Practice.

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Do you need to be present at the inspection ?

You don't need to be present, however it is highly recommended. As we go through the house together, your Town & Country inspector will answer many questions about your home, its operation and maintenance. This is an excellent opportunity for you to see the house from a completely different view. The knowledge you gain can provide piece-of-mind in the purchase decision. The inspector will also ask you many questions that will help in the assessment of the home. 

Understanding the expectations and special needs of your family is important to our inspectors.

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Our inspection service rates

 The following is provided as a guideline only.  Please call to confirm rates for your particular property.

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