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ips on Reading an Inspection Report
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When hiring a Home Inspector ask them what they will include in the report and what they will exclude. Does their fee include sea wall, spa, swimming pool, sprinkler system, well, fireplace? Or are these things extra?What about lead paint, radon, mold and certain other environmental risks?Will they move the buyers boxes to get at the electical box or check out the attic? (More than likely not - so the buyer should be asked to let there be access)
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The most important issue with an inspection report is the descriptions given for each item or component. A report that indicates the condition as "Good", "Fair" or "Poor" without a detailed explanation, is vague and can be easily misinterpreted.
Is good O.K.? Or does that mean don't worry that item is working as it was meant to work. Get a full explanation of their terms.
A good report should supply you with descriptive information on the condition of the site and home. ie, is this cosmetic, or a safety issue or definately needs repair- or even another professional should take a look ie. structural engineer.
At the end of the inspection your inspector may provide a summary with a question and answer period. Use this opportunity to ask questions regarding terms or conditions that you may not be familiar with. A good inspector should be able to explain the answers to your questions. If for some reason a question cannot be answered at the time of the inspection, the inspector should research the question and obtain the answer for you. For instance, if the inspector's report states that the concrete foundation has common cracks, be sure to ask, "Why are they common?" The answer you should receive will be along these lines: common cracks are usually due to normal concrete curing and or shrinkage. The inspector's knowledge and experience is how the size and characteristics of the cracking is determined.
We recommend that you accompany your inspector through the entire inspection if possible. This helps you to understand the condition of the home and the details of the report.
Read the report completely and understand the condition of the home you are about to purchase. After all, it is most likely one of the largest investments you will ever make.
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