Q: Why should I have a house inspected?
A: When buying a house, you are making a major investment; it is critical that you have a solid understanding of what you are getting for your money. A home inspection will provide you with important knowledge about the condition of the exterior, interior, structure, plumbing, electrical, and heating/cooling systems. Where applicable, tests will be conducted for carbon monoxide and gas and/or flue leaks. We also recommend having the house inspected for wood destroying insect damage/infestation, radon, and, when there is a well, water quality and the well system and capacity.

When selling a house, having it inspected before you put it on the market will tell you what needs to be done to it and what may come out as a result of the buyer's inspections. Knowing this, you will have the option of correcting the problems ahead of time and hopefully be able to sell your house more easily and for more money; or at least you will be prepared for what the buyer might ask you to do.

Q: When should I have the house inspected?
A: When buying a house, we recommend that you have both the offer and the purchase and sale agreement contingent upon your satisfaction with the results of a home inspection. Generally, we recommend that the home be inspected within 10 days of signing the purchase and sale agreement so you know as soon as possible what it's condition is.

When selling a house, we recommend that you have it inspected prior to putting it on the market so that you can decide if you want to fix or improve anything ahead of time.

Q: Who should inspect the house?
A: You should have the house inspected by someone licensed within your state. Licensed inspectors must meet specific licensing requirements, must inspect following detailed guidelines established by their state board, and must complete ongoing continuing education courses.

We do not recommend having a friend, family member or any other non-licensed individual inspect the house because a great deal of knowledge and experience is required to evaluate structural, mechanical, and electrical systems. The average cost for having a licensed inspector do the job is low relative to the cost of the house!

Q: What will the inspection report be like?
A: National Home Inspection Company provides a comprehensive and easy-to-understand report at the end of the inspection. It will clearly state the condition of each item evaluated, and recommend any corrective actions that should be taken. It is formatted with each component of the inspection on one page (exterior, interior, kitchen, baths, plumbing, structure, electrical, heating/cooling, and other) so that it is easier to follow, and easy to give the appropriate contractor a copy of the relevant page when getting estimates or having work done.

Q: What if I have more questions?
A: We are more than happy to answer all your questions! We understand that buying or selling a house can be very stressful and we want to help you! Feel free to call us anytime!