The Home Inspection Process

One of the most important parts of buying a home in Gilbert, in my opionion, is the home inspection.  With a large number of "short sales" and REO or bank owned homes, where in most cases no repairs will be made or the home is being sold "as is", it becomes extremely important that you have a skilled and knowledgable home inpector.   

Is an inspection necessary?

 You should always exercise your option to have the physical condition of the property and its inclusions inspected.  Many of the more severe and expensive problems such as mechanical, electrical, structural, and plumbing are not noticeable to the untrained eye.  If repairs are needed, these repairs can be negotiate with the seller.  A professionally conducted home inspection followed by a written evaluation is critical part of the home buying process.  

What does an inspection entail? 

A qualified inspector will follow Standards of Practice in conducting their inspection.  The inspection consists of a physical inspection of the home with the buyer present, followed by a written report detailing their findings.  They report on the general condition of the home's electrical, heating, and air systems, interior plumbing, roof, visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, and visible structure.  The inspection is not designed to criticize every minor problem or defect in the home.  No home is perfect.  It is intended to report on major damage or serious problems that require repair for the well being of the home and that might require significant expense. 

In the event the home inspector finds a possible problem that may be out of the scope of the home inspection, for instance, the roof is in poor condition. It will up to the buyer to hire a roof inspector to evaluate the condition of the roof and the recommend repairs or replacements.

I have found that the two biggest concerns that most home buyers have is the condition of the roof and the the air conditioner.

Make sure your home inspector is a licensed and certified inspector and a member of The American Society of Home Inspectors ASHI