Frequently Asked Questions

Why a Professional Inspection?
Why Do I Need An Inspection?
What Does A Home Inspection Include?
When Do I Request An Inspector?
Can A Building "FAIL" The Inspection?
What If The Report Reveals Problems?
If The Report Is Favorable, Did I Really Need An Inspection?
Can I Inspect The Building Myself?
What Will The Inspection Cost?
Should I Attend The Inspection?
What Is CREIA?
Why would I have an inspection before listing?
What are Home Seller Disclosure Obligations?
Do I Have to Repair Everything Wrong With The House?

Why a Professional Inspection?

Property inspectors possess an intricate combination of disciplines, skills, and learning of which general construction is only one part. In addition to common construction knowledge an inspector must recognize and evaluate various patterns of deterioration and wear affecting building structures and mechanics as time has passed.

Why do I Need an Inspection?

The purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the largest single investments you will ever make. 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 repaired in the past. The inspector interprets these and other clues, then presents a professional unbiased 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.

As a seller, if you have owned your building for a period of time, an inspection can identify potential problems in the sale of your building and can recommend preventive measures, which might avoid future expensive repairs or delays in closing of the sale.

What does a Home Inspection Include?

A complete inspection includes a visual examination of the building from top to bottom. The inspector evaluates and reports their unbiased opinion on the condition of the structure, roof, foundation, drainage, plumbing, heating system, central air-conditioning system, visible insulation, walls, windows, and doors. Only those items that are visible and accessible by normal means are included in the report.

When do I Request an Inspector?

As a seller, this should be prior to placing the property on the market. As a buyer, the best time to consult the inspector is right after you’ve made an offer on your new building. The real estate contract usually allows for a grace period to inspect the building. Ask your professional agent to include this inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection.

Can a Building “FAIL” the Inspection?

No. A professional inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your subject property. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection. An inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a building, but will simply describe its condition in an unbiased format and indicate which items will be in need of upgrading, repairs or replacement.

What if the Report Reveals Problems?

If the inspector finds problems in a building, it does not necessarily mean as a buyer you shouldn’t buy it, only that you will know in advance what type of repairs to anticipate. If a seller has had a "listing inspection", they may already have taken in account the condition of the property or they may be willing to make repairs because of significant problems discovered by the inspector. If your budget is tight, or if you do not wish to become involved in future repair work, you may decide that this is not the property for you. The choice is always yours.

If the Report Is Favorable, did I Really Need an Inspection?

Definitely! Now you can complete your purchase with peace of mind about the condition of the property and its equipment and systems. You may have learned a few things about your property from the inspection report, and will want to keep that information for your future reference. Above all, as a buyer, you can rest assured that you are making a well-informed purchase decision and that you will be able to enjoy or occupy your new home or building the way you want. As the seller, you can feel confident in that you have provided full disclosure.

Can I Inspect the Building Myself?

Even the most experienced building or homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected hundreds, and perhaps thousands of homes and buildings in their career. An inspector is equally familiar with the critical elements of construction and with the proper installation, maintenance and inter-relationships of these elements. Above all, most buyers and sellers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the building, and this may lead to a poor assessment.

What Will the Inspection Cost?

The inspection fee for a typical single-family house or commercial building varies geographically, as does the cost of housing, similarly, within a geographic area the inspection fees vary depending upon the size of the building, particular features of the building, age, type of structure, etc. However, the cost should not be a factor in the decision whether or not to have a physical inspection. You might save many times the cost of the inspection because you now can make an educated decision and if you’re the seller, the cost of repair can be factored into the asking price based upon costs estimates you obtain. This also reduces the stress involved in re-negotiating based upon problems revealed by the inspector during a buyer’s inspection.

Should I Attend the Inspection?

It is not required for you to be present for the inspection, but it is a good idea. By following the inspector through the inspection, observing and asking questions, you will learn about the building and get some tips on general maintenance. Information that will be of great help to both sides of the transaction long after the close of escrow.

What is CREIA?

The California Real Estate Inspection Association, (CREIA), was established in 1976 as a non-profit voluntary professional association. CREIA has Standards of Practice and a professional Code of Ethics, which provide the consumer with the assurance of quality and professionalism. Members throughout the state are recognized in California as the leading authority in the building inspection industry.All members must abide by these standards and code of ethics. CREIA offers its members and candidates continuing education in the latest building technology, training, and materials to ensure the most professional inspection for the consumer.

Why Would I Have an Inspection Before Listing?

Home sellers are being urged to utilize home inspections prior to listing their homes. Professional inspections can discover unknown conditions allowing sellers an opportunity to perform desired repairs before placing the property on the market. A professional "listing inspection" is just good business, it may facilitate a smoother transaction by putting potential buyers at ease, reducing negotiating points, and bypassing annoying delays.

What are Home Seller Disclosure Obligations?

California case law states that it is the duty of a seller to disclose relevant facts concerning the property for sale through a TDS form. (Transfer Document Statement) This basically means a seller of one to four residential units has a legal obligation to disclose all of the conditions of the property know to them to perspective buyers, which is often accomplished through use of a “Transfer Disclosure Statement.” While the listing inspection report cannot be used as a substitute for that disclosure, it does allow the seller to provide prospective buyers with additional information, based on an unbiased, third party, professional inspection.

Do I Have to Repair Everything Wrong with the House?

A listing inspection report is not intended to be a “do” or repair list for the home. Sellers are not obligated to repair conditions noted in the report, nor are they required to produce a flawless house. With a prelisting home inspection, potential repair items already known by both parties are subject to any negotiations. A home seller can make repairs as a matter of choice, not obligation; to foster good will or to facilitate the sale. Sellers maintain the legal right to refuse repair demands, except where requirements are set forth by state law, local ordinance, or the real estate purchase contract.