Inspections
Article By NC Real Estate Commission What
is a home inspection? It
is an evaluation of the visible and accessible systems and components of a home
(plumbing system, roof, etc.) and is intended to give the client (usually a homebuyer)
a better understanding of their condition. It is also important to know what a
home inspection is not! It is not an appraisal of the property's value; nor should
you expect it to address the cost of repairs. It does not guarantee that the home
complies with local building codes (which are subject to periodic change) or protect
you in the event an item inspected fails in the future. [Note: Warranties can
be purchased to cover many items.] Nor should it be considered a "technically
exhaustive" evaluation, but rather an evaluation of the property on the day
it is inspected, taking into consideration normal wear and tear. Can
anyone perform a home inspection? No.
Only persons licensed by the North Carolina Home Inspector Licensure Board are
permitted to perform home inspections for compensation. To qualify for licensure,
they must satisfy certain education and experience requirements and pass a state
licensing examination. Their inspections must be conducted in accordance with
the Board's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Why
should I have the home inspected? Most
homebuyers lack the knowledge, skill and emotional detachment needed to inspect
homes themselves. By using the services of a licensed Home Inspector, they can
gain a better understanding of the condition of the property, especially whether
any items do not "function as intended"or "adversely affect the
habitability of the dwelling"or "warrant further investigation"
by a person who specializes in the item in question. How
do I request a home inspection, and who will pay for it? You
can arrange for the home inspection or ask your real estate agent to assist you.
Unless you otherwise agree, you will be responsible for payment of the home inspection
and any subsequent inspections. If the inspection is to be performed after you
have signed the purchase contract, be sure to schedule the inspection as soon
as possible to allow adequate time for any repairs to be performed. What
should I do if I feel something has been missed on the inspection? Before
any repairs are made (except emergency repairs), call the inspector or inspection
company to discuss the problem. Many times a "trip charge" can be saved
by explaining the problem to the inspector who can answer the question over the
telephone. This also gives the inspector a chance to promptly handle any problems
that may have been overlooked in the inspection. | 
