Frequently Asked Questions
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective, visual examination of a home’s structure, systems and mechanical systems. Think of it like having a personal physical check-up that includes blood pressure, reflexes, temperature, etc., only on the home. (see below)
What does an inspection include?
The home inspector is required to observe readily visible and accessible installed systems which include: structural components, exterior, roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, central air conditioning, interiors, built-in kitchen appliances, insulation and ventilation. The home inspector shall operate the mechanical systems using normal operating controls except when conditions or other circumstances may cause equipment damage. A full list of included items can be found on the Complete Home Inspections page.
What will it cost?
Inspection fees are based on the size of the house, its age, and possibly its location. A full price list can be found on the Services and Pricing page
. When pricing a home inspection, remember that you are not only paying for a report, but also for the years of experience your inspector provides.Can I do a home inspection myself?
Of course you can inspect the home yourself. However, most homeowners lack the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. A professional home inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, their proper installation and maintenance and will document their findings to you in writing.
Are home inspectors required to be licensed?
Yes. In North Carolina, all home inspections performed for a fee are required to be done by a NC Licensed Home Inspector. The regulatory body governing home inspectors in North Carolina is the North Carolina Home Inspector Licensure Board. Their home page is www.nchilb.com.
What if the inspection reveals problems with the house?
No house is perfect. Just because the house may have some problems doesn’t mean it isn’t a good investment. The inspection will help you understand the condition of the house. It is up to you and your contract with the seller to determine which problems you can live with, if you may be able to get repairs done before closing, or to negotiate with the seller on the price of the home.
Can a house fail inspection?
No, a house can not fail since the inspection is an objective, visual examination of a home’s structure, systems and mechanical systems. A home inspection is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local building code compliance. A home inspection in this context can not pass or fail, it is simply reporting the condition of the home from a visual examination of the structure and systems at that point in time.
Should I be present at the home inspection?
At Professional Inspections, Inc. we encourage our clients to be present at the inspection. Some problems may be difficult to describe in writing. If the client is present at the inspection, they can leave the inspection confident that they have a clear understanding of each problem found. If the client is unable to attend the inspection, we are more than happy to discuss the report over the telephone if any questions arise.
Is a contract required for a home inspection?
Yes, all licensed home inspectors in North Carolina are required to provide a written contract that describes the services performed, standards of practice, limitations and the cost of the services. This contract is required to be signed before the home inspection is performed. A copy of our contract is available on the Our Contract page and should be reviewed prior to attending the home inspection.
When should I call a home inspector?
Normally , it’s a good idea to call in an inspector after you have made an offer to purchase the property and before closing. Many “offer to purchase” contracts include an “inspection clause” in the contract, making your purchase contingent upon the findings of a home inspection. This inspection clause often specifies the time frame when the inspection must be completed.
If, on the other hand, you are in the process of selling your home, it is also quite common to get a "pre-market" inspection. This is exactly the same a a normal home inspection, but it allows you, the home owner, to be aware of any problems with your home before you put it on the market, preventing any surprises if your potential buyers request a home inspection later on.
