What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of the accessible areas of a residential property. It is designed to identify defects within specific systems and components of a home that are both observed and deemed material by the home inspector. This includes key components of the home, such as the roof, the siding, the electrical, the foundation, and plumbing. It also includes major appliances, such as HVAC systems, water heaters, and kitchen stoves, among other systems.
How Much does a Home Inspection Cost?
Pricing starts at $400 and includes homes built after 1978 and up to 1000′ square feet.
Add .15 cents per square foot for the footage above 1,000 sqft.
Add $50 for homes built prior to 1978 and $100 for homes built prior to 1932.
What is included in a Home Inspection?
Our certified and licensed home inspectors check the home from top to bottom. We inspect the roof, attic, walls, foundation, windows, interior, exterior, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, structure, fireplace, chimney, grading and more. Some things that come up in an inspection, such as as a dirty fireplace or HVAC unit, might require a cleaning and deeper inspection by a professional.
What is not included in a Home Inspection?
A home inspection covers only what can be visually accessed. A home inspector cannot tear into drywall to examine electrical wiring, for instance, but the inspector can test an outlet to make sure it is properly grounded. A home inspector can check the functionality of a furnace and air conditioner and can visually inspect a unit. However, the inspector does not perform a compression test. Outlets that cannot be accessed because they are covered by furniture or components in a room or an area that is locked cannot be inspected. If water or gas to a home is shut off, we would seek permission in writing from the listing real estate agent in order to inspect those aspects of a home.
A standard home inspection does not include many components that a home buyer might want to have inspected. These aspects include mold testing, radon testing, or testing for the presence of wood destroying organisms or other pests. However, Blue Lotus Leaf Home Inspections does offer those services at additional cost.
How long does it take for a Home Inspection?
The amount of time it takes for a home inspection depends on a number of factors. Things such as the condition of a house, its age, and the square footage of the residence can impact the time needed for a thorough inspection. A home with a basement or crawlspace will have more to go through than a small home built on a slab. The typical time it takes our home inspectors from start to finish is about 4 hours for homes up to 2,000 square feet.
When will I receive the Home Inspection Report?
A detailed inspection report of the home will be emailed to you the same day of the inspection. These reports are very descriptive and include images and videos of each and every defect observed. This gives you a better understanding of what improvements a home might need to undergo and, if needed, gives you visual evidence that can be shared with a seller or listing agent in order to negotiate for you a better agreement on your home purchase. We believe that it is important for you to have ample time to review it thoroughly, and we are with you at every step to address any concerns you may have during the home-buying process.
