A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.
While economical and useful, these reports have limits that must be acknowledged. Too often, the significance of this report is overstated, leaving the buyer and seller exposed to unreasonable expectations, which can lead to unhappy clients, disagreements, and even lawsuits. There are several important considerations home buyers need to understand about their home inspector.
1. Some home inspectors are not licensed
Some states, such as Ohio, have no licensing or state certification for home inspectors. While a license or credential is not a guarantee of competence, it is an indication the inspector has completed a minimum level of education.There are a number of credentialing organizations, including: American Society of Home Inspectors, and the National Association of Home Inspectors. These organizations each have their own qualifications, exams, and code of ethics. Buyers should seek out an inspector certified by one of these major organizations which is as easy as visiting their websites and conducting a search for inspectors in your area. Do not accept so-called “company certifications,” which are simply in-house programs and not subject to any industry oversight.
2. Insurance is important
While it's rare, an inspector can occasionally miss an important item that could point toward a significant repair issue. In the event this occurs, consumers will be disappointed if the inspector is unable to pay for the necessary repair of the neglected item. Your client should hire an inspector with current liability insurance.3. Occasionally a specialized expert is required
An inspector will sometimes report on a significant item that requires particular expertise. For example, if a question is raised regarding a crack in the home's foundation, you may need advice from a structural engineer. An architect or general contractor might be needed to determine how an unpermitted addition might be legitimized with the building department.The home inspector is the first but not necessarily the last word on things. Consumers may want to bring in further expertise if the report indicates a problem.
4. Home inspectors do not eliminate all risk
The home inspection is only visual. The inspector cannot see inside walls to confirm that the framing is solid or that the plumbing or wiring was properly installed. Exterior finishes typically cover a home’s most important elements, so inspectors look for clues. However, the absence of cracks does not mean a wall is strong, and the absence of stains on the ceiling does not guarantee the roof is watertight.The typical home inspection contract alerts consumers to these limitations. Be sure to read and understands this. This is critical to help remind you that the inspector will not tear open walls, expose the waterproofing of windows, or remove any part of the home. The risk of potential hidden problems remains, even after the best visual assessment of the property.
Buyers need to understand that a visual inspection (“AVID”) and the home inspection are not a 100% guarantee and protection from any problems with the home.
5. Pick the best, not the cheapest
Home inspection prices vary and it can be tempting to hire the cheapest. There may be a reason a company’s price is low. Are they new? Do they take far less time on the inspection? Do they have a poor reputation and need a catchy low price to get business? Home inspections are a minuscule cost relative to the total price of a home. We encourage our clients not to focus solely on price and hire the best available.6. No Home is perfect
Reviewing all the inspection paperwork is a preventative measure to make sure you know what you're getting yourself into. It's always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to one of the largest financial investments you'll ever make.The first logical step would be to ask the seller to fix any problems. If the seller refuses, a buyer should work with their REALTOR® to negotiate a price reduction. If a solution cannot be reached, the buyer should look for another home.
In short, if you can't buy a home at the price you want and in the condition you want, you shouldn't buy that home.
If you, or someone you know is considering Buying or Selling a Home in Columbus, Ohio please contact The Opland Group. We offer professional real estate advice and look forward to helping you achieve your real estate goals!
The Opland Group Specializes in Real Estate Sales, Luxury Home Sales, Short Sales in; Bexley Columbus Delaware Downtown Dublin Gahanna Grandview Heights Granville Grove City Groveport Hilliard Lewis Center New Albany Pickerington Polaris Powell Upper Arlington Westerville Worthington
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