West Palm Beach Home Inspections

Home inspection is a standard part of the home-buying process. During the initial walk-through of the home, problems may not be visible and these can add up to some very costly repairs for the new homebuyer. A home inspection conducted by a professional inspector can help identify potential problems before the deal is finalized.

The home inspection is conducted after the seller has accepted the buyer’s offer. The offer should include a clause making the sale contingent on a good inspection.

A typical inspection will cost between $200 and $400. In selecting an inspector, look for someone with both experience and training. Ask for names of people the inspector has recently worked for. It’s also a good idea to look for an inspector who belongs to a professional association such as The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). They have very specific guidelines and a Code of Ethics each member adheres to. It is also smart to hire someone you are confident can be objective; don’t hire an inspector who was referred by someone with a financial interest in the home.

The home inspector’s role is to check the home for defects and problems. Checking from the basement to the roof, the inspector will look at things such as plumbing, heating, the foundation and structure, floors, walls, ceilings, the electrical system and more. If you accompany the inspector, you will have the chance to learn about your new home and what it will take to maintain it.

Note that home inspections are also important for new construction. The builder or developer can supply necessary blueprints or documents to your inspector.

Home inspectors will usually recommend repairs, but they should never offer to perform repairs or recommend a contractor. Once the inspection is complete, ask for a written report within a couple days. Your buyer’s agent can answer any questions concerning timeliness of the inspection or how to renegotiate if problems are discovered.