Home Inspection Services

Hiring a Home Inspector

You've found the home of your dreams and decided to buy it! The home appears to be in great condition… and you want it!

But… your real estate agent recommends a home inspection. Is it worth the few extra dollars for a home inspection?

You bet! Although your dream home may look perfect to you, a competent home inspector can make sure you're not taking on a nightmare.

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Find the Right Inspector

You want to look for a home inspector who has a general knowledge and understanding of the systems and structures of a house… a sort of general practitioner.

Before you hire anyone, there are some important things to consider.

Do your homework and ask questions. Home inspectors are not regulated in Arizona, so it's important to look for credentials or certifications. Also, check with the local Better Business Bureau for a record of complaints.

Don't be shy about asking about experience. You will want to know how long the inspector has been inspecting homes, and how many homes he/she has inspected. A lot of years in the business doesn't necessarily equate to a lot of home inspections.

Look for an inspector who carries errors and omissions insurance. It protects you… and the inspector.

Spend a little time talking with your inspector. That way you'll be more familiar with his/her particular skills and capabilities.

Ask friends who have bought homes to refer you to a qualified inspector. You can also look for a list of local inspectors on the Internet. It's not a good idea to ask Uncle Harry, the family handyman, to perform your inspection. That's like asking your auto mechanic to perform brain surgery!

Buying a home is a huge financial investment, so you want to make certain there are no major defects in your home. A professional home inspector has the training and experience needed to recognize potential problems.

Nearly all homes have certain systems and features in common. You want to find an inspector with experience that matches the home you are buying. Homes of different ages, designs and materials each have their own special risks and offer special signs, symptoms and clues to hidden damage.

The Clock is Ticking

When you enter into a purchase contract, you have a limited period of time to have the home inspected. So it's a good idea to begin looking for a home inspector when you begin looking for your home. That way, you don't lose any time once you sign the contract.

What the Home Inspection Covers

An inspection should cover the home's heating and cooling systems, electrical, plumbing, interiors, exteriors, garage, guest house, baths, roofing, kitchens, drainage, insects, insulation, ventilation and more.

The inspector will look for problems related to water entry, roof leaks, insect and rodent infestation, unsafe wiring, poor plumbing, failed septic systems, mold and mildew, and safety hazards.

Structural soundness will also be checked, including exterior walls, parapets, soffits, fascia, trim, chimney, foundations and slabs.

If the home has an attic, the inspector should climb inside. The roof should also be inspected including insulation, ventilation, framing, surface, flashing, punctures, drainage, overhangs, gutters and downspouts.

In the kitchen the inspection includes cabinets, counters, sinks, faucets, garbage disposal and other built-in appliances.

A thorough inspection will take between 2-3 hours, depending on the home. Cost should range from about $300-$500, depending on the age and type of structure.

You should plan to be present while the inspector does the job. It's a great way to get familiar with the home you're buying, ask questions and learn.

When the inspector is finished, you will receive a completed report in time for you and your real estate agent to review it. That way, if there is any negotiating, you'll have time.

The report should include photographs and details of defects or damage found during the inspection. Photographs help clarify problems and make it easier to get estimates for repairs.

Home Inspection Resources – Tucson AZ

National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI)

The National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. is a source for certified Arizona home inspectors and consultants in Arizona that provide professional home inspection services in Arizona. The NAHI is a non-profit association designed to promote excellence and professionalism in the home inspection industry. The Arizona home inspector members comply with a Standards of Practice and the home inspector Code of Ethics that ensures professional home inspection at all times.

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