FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is a home inspection? The purpose of a home inspection is to visually examine the readily accessible systems and components of the home.  Items that are unsafe or not functioning properly, in the opinion of the inspector, will be described in accordance with standards of the industry.  The home inspection is a limited and non-invasive inspection of the home and property.  It is limited in the fact that it is a general inspection.  It is also non-invasive in the fact that the inspector does not tear into walls or pull flooring up to examine the property.  We could probably find more issues with the home if flooring and walls were removed.  However, the purpose of the inspection is not intended to be destructive in nature.  After all, someone owns this property.  Living in the home is often the only way to discover some issues that have not been identified during the few hours of the inspection.  For example, a roof may only leak when specific storm conditions exist.  Regrettably, if we had more time and the luxury of being able to disassemble certain components of the home, more incidental items could be found.  This would take several days and would cost considerably more though.   The inspection also represents the condition of the property at the time of the inspection only.  While estimates can be made on the remaining useful life of an appliance or roof, for example, it cannot be determined exactly.  There are too many environmental and mechanical factors in play to determine the exact useful life.  Our work is also performed relative to the conditions at the time.  For example, air conditioners are not checked during the winter season due to the fact that it could damage the unit. Why should I get a home inspection? Setting up a professional home inspection will save you money, educate you about your home, and provide you some much-needed peace of mind.  For homebuyers, a home inspection will alert you of any potential problems with the property and allow you to negotiate the offer price before the purchase.  If you're selling a home, getting a home inspection means you know you're complying with full disclosure laws, and means you can fix problems before they are found by a potential buyer.  This may enable you to sell your home quicker and for a higher price.  What is included in an inspection? The typical home inspection will include examining the readily accessible components of the home.  Some of the major components inspected include the: roof, exterior, basement, foundation, crawlspace, heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, attic, insulation, ventilation, doors, windows, and interior.    What is not included in an inspection? Certain items are outside of the range of the typical home inspection.  For example, septic systems are usually inspected by county officials and not by private home inspectors.  Additionally, some other items that are not inspected include: swimming pools, solar systems, code violations, termites or other wood destroying insects, radon, lead, asbestos, fungi, mold, rodents, private wells, spas, personal property, and other environmental or health items.  The inspection only includes those systems and components expressly and specifically identified in the inspection report.  Can a home fail an inspection? A home can't fail an inspection, but its systems and structures just might.  The inspection provides the knowledge that you need to make an informed decision.  Realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in the report.  No home is perfect, and it is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance or small incidental items. How long does an inspection take?  A typical home inspection will take 2-4 hours to complete, depending on the size and condition of the home.  We strongly urge the prospective buyer to be present for the walk-through at the end of the inspection.  By being present, you will have a far greater understanding of your new home and the report. What's in the report? After the inspection is performed, the inspector will write a report on what was found at the inspection.  This report is usually 15-25 pages long and includes the condition of the items that were inspected and digital pictures.  There is also a section that identifies major problem areas.  This can be very useful in real estate transactions as well as repairs that need to be performed.  The report is completed within 24 hours after the inspection and can be sent to the client via email or the U.S. Postal Service in paper or CD form.  How much does an inspection cost? A typical home inspection will cost between $200-$350 depending on the size and location of the home.  How do I schedule an inspection? The best way to schedule an inspection is to call TNT Home Inspection LLC at 515-451-3170.