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406-201-1573
customers@406hip.com
Service Area
Proudly serving Flathead, Lake, Sanders, Lincoln, Mineral, Missoula, Glacier, Powell Counties.
Out of State?
We do that. No problem, As much as 50% of our customers are from out of state.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A HOME INSPECTION?
A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home. The inspector will look for any defects or problems that could affect the home’s safety, livability, or value.
The specific items that are inspected will vary depending on the size and age of the home, as well as the local climate. However, a typical home inspection will include the following:
- Roof
- Exterior walls and foundation
- Windows and doors
- Interior walls and ceilings
- Floors
- Plumbing
- Electrical system
- Heating and cooling system
- Insulation
- Attic and crawlspace
- Appliances
The inspector will also check for signs of pests, mold, and water damage.
The home inspection process typically takes 2-4 hours. The inspector will write a detailed report that documents their findings and recommendations along with pictures for clarification.
It is important to note that a home inspection is not a guarantee of a problem-free home. The inspector cannot predict the future, cannot inspect things that are not visible, and they may not be able to find all defects. However, a home inspection can give you peace of mind by helping you identify any potential problems before you buy the home.
Read the inspection report carefully and follow up on any concerns. ASK QUESTIONS of your inspector if you have any.
A home inspection is a valuable investment that can help you make an informed decision about buying a home. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your home inspection and protect yourself from costly repairs in the future.
HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR A HOME INSPECTION?
CAN A HOUSE FAIL A HOME INSPECTION?
Technically, a house cannot fail a home inspection. A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, and the inspector will not give the home a grade or pass/fail designation. However, there are certain defects or problems that can be found during a home inspection that the buyer may chose not to deal with.
Everyone has different tolerances for things needing to be fixed. Some of the most common problems that can cause a home to be undesirable for any particular person may include:
- Major structural defects, such as cracks in the foundation or walls
- Significant water damage
- Electrical or plumbing problems that pose a safety hazard.
- Pest infestation
- Mold or mildew
- Well Water that is not potable.
If the home inspector finds any of these problems, they will report them in their inspection report. The buyer and seller will then need to discuss how to address the problems. In some cases, the seller may be willing to fix the problems before the sale. In other cases, the buyer may need to negotiate a lower price or walk away from the deal.
One of your greatest resources if you are using Real Estate Agents (most common) is their experience with dealing with and negotiating through home inspection findings.
It is important to remember that a home inspection is just one part of the home buying process. It is important to do your own research and get multiple bids from contractors before making any decisions about repairs.
CAN I SKIP THE HOME INSPECTION?
While you can legally skip a home inspection in many cases, doing so could mean you may end up buying a home that has major issues that need to be fixed.
There was a time when skipping (waiving) a Home Inspection was more common. This happens when the market is extremely hot. A buyer would wave the Inspection to make their offer more appealing to he seller.
Many people who bought and skipped the inspection are wishing they did not. This is a big purchase and needs to be treated as such.
CAN A HOME INSPECTOR MAKE REPAIRS?
Short answer is resounding NO!
There are a few reasons why home inspectors cannot make repairs. First, it would create a conflict of interest. If the inspector found a problem and then offered to fix it, the buyer or seller might feel pressured to hire them. Second, it would be a violation of the home inspector’s code of ethics. Most professional home inspector associations have rules that prohibit inspectors from making repairs.
If you find a problem with a home during an inspection, you will need to hire a licensed contractor to fix it. You can get recommendations from the home inspector or from your real estate agent. Be sure to get multiple estimates before making a decision.
Usually your Real Estate agent will have names and numbers to work with.
