-- A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from roof to foundation. A home inspection is the equivalent of a physical examination from your general practitioner doctor. When problems or symptoms of problems are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation or remedies by a specialist. -- A standard home inspection summarizes findings from a visual inspection of the condition of the subject home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the site, foundation, basement, and visible structures of the home. -- Buyers: The purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the largest single investments you will ever make. Buyers and sellers depend on an accurate home inspection to maximize their knowledge of the property in order to make intelligent decisions before executing an agreement for sale or purchase. A home inspection summarizes the condition of a property, points out the need for major repairs and identifies areas that may need attention in the near future. A home inspection also points out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. You should know exactly what to expect --- both indoors and out -- in terms of needed and future repairs and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic roof leakage problem or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector interprets these and other clues, and then presents a professional opinion as to the condition of the property so you can avoid unpleasant surprises afterward. Of course, an inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a building, as well as the type of maintenance needed to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase, and be able to make your decision confidently. Sellers: For homeowners, an inspection may be used to identify problems in the making and to learn about preventive measures, which might avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, an inspection prior to placing your home on the market provides a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector. This provides you with the opportunity to conduct repairs that will make your home more desirable to potential buyers, and could avoid future contract renegotiations. -- Inspection fees for a typical single family home vary by size and features of the property and age of the home (see Fee Schedule). Additionally, services such as septic inspections and radon testing may be warranted depending upon the individual property. Do not let the cost deter you from having a home inspection or selecting an inspector you are comfortable with - knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the time and expense. The lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's qualifications, including experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration in your selection. -- Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. A professional home inspector has the experience, depth of knowledge and training to make an unbiased and informed report of the condition of a property. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, their proper installation and maintenance. An inspector understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. A professional home inspector knows what to look for and is uniquely suited to interpret what their findings reveal about the condition of the property. Most buyers find it difficult to remain objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information about the condition of a home, always obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection. -- No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance to local codes and standards. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house. A home inspection describes the physical condition of a property and indicates what may need repair or replacement. -- While it is not necessary for you to be present, it is always recommended that you make time to join the inspector for their visit. This allows you to observe the inspector, ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain them. After you have seen the property with the inspector, you will find the written report easier to understand. -- No house is perfect. When the inspection identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. The inspector's findings serve to educate you in advance of the purchase about the condition of the property. A seller may repair, adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are discovered during an inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.