Inspections

Home inspection

The home inspection is an examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. Inspectors look for any problems that could affect the value of the home or cause safety issues. Homebuyers usually hire a professional home inspector before buying a house.

The average cost of a home inspection is $315, but prices can vary depending on the size of the home and the inspector's experience. Inspectors typically spend 2-3 hours onsite, and buyers should receive a report detailing any major problems or concerns.

Home inspections are not required by law, but they are strongly recommended. Many lenders will not provide a mortgage without one.

A home inspection is not the same as a home appraisal. An appraiser estimates the value of the home, while an inspector looks for any defects that could affect the safety or value of the property.

What does a home inspector look for?

A home inspector will examine the following:

The foundation

The framing

The electrical system

The plumbing

The HVAC system

The roof

The exterior of the home

The interior of the home

Inspectors will look for any issues that could affect the value or safety of the property. This includes things like water damage, structural problems, electrical hazards, and more.

Buyers should be present for the inspection so that they can ask questions and learn about the condition of the home. It is also a good opportunity to meet the inspector and get to know them before the report is written.

Home inspection reports should be thorough and easy to understand. They should include photos of any problems, as well as a description of the issue and its potential consequences. inspectors should be willing to explain the report in detail and answer any questions buyers have.

Home inspection reports are typically 10-20 pages long, but they can be much longer for larger homes or homes with significant problems.

A home inspection is a valuable tool for buyers, but it is important to remember that inspectors are not perfect. They may miss some things, and they may not be able to see inside walls or crawlspaces. If there are any concerns, buyers should get a second opinion from another inspector or hire a professional contractor to take a closer look.

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make. Protect that investment by hiring a professional home inspector

Geolance offers comprehensive home inspections that will identify all problems with the property. We're so confident in our services that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our inspections.

You deserve to know everything there is to know about the property you're buying. Let Geolance provide you with a complete report on the condition of the house, so you can make an informed decision about your purchase.

Home inspection report

1) Overall condition of the property: The inspector will look at the overall condition of the property and make note of any major repairs that may be necessary.

2) Roof: The inspector will check for signs of damage to the roof and gutters and downspouts. They will also look for evidence of leaks or other water damage.

3) Foundation: The inspector will check the foundation for cracks or other damage. They will also look for evidence of settlement or shifting.

4) Electrical system: The inspector will check the electrical panel and all outlets and switches. They will look for any signs of shorts or overloaded circuits.

5) Plumbing: The inspector will check the plumbing system for leaks or other damage. They will also test the water pressure and look for any signs of backflow.

6) HVAC system: The inspector will check the heating and cooling system for any signs of wear or tear. They will also test the thermostat to make sure it is working properly.

7) Exterior of the home: The inspector will check the exterior walls, windows, and doors for any signs of damage. They will also look for evidence of termites or other pests.

8) Interior of the home: The inspector will check the interior walls, ceilings, and floors for any signs of damage. They will also look for evidence of water leaks or mold.

The inspector will also take note of any safety hazards they find, such as loose railings or exposed wires.

After the inspection is complete, the buyer will receive a report detailing any problems that were found. The report will also include photos of any damage and a description of the issue. The buyer can then use this information to negotiate with the seller for repairs or a lower price.

It's worth noting that house inspectors aren't perfect. They may overlook details, and they may not be able to look within walls or crawlspaces. If there are any issues, buyers should get a second opinion from another expert or engage a professional contractor to examine the situation more closely.

Real estate agent

A real estate agent is a professional who helps people buy and sell a property. They are experts in the local market and can help buyers find the right home at the right price. They can also help sellers get the best price for their homes and negotiate with buyers on their behalf.

Real estate agents typically work for a real estate brokerage, which is a company that represents both buyers and sellers. The brokerage will take a commission from the sale, which is typically 3-6%.

Real estate agents are licensed by the state in which they work. To get a license, they must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of real estate law and regulations. They must also complete continuing education courses to keep their license active.

If you're thinking of buying or selling a home, it's worth working with a real estate agent. They can help you navigate the process and make sure everything goes smoothly.

Notary Public

A notary public is a person who is licensed by the state to witness the signing of documents. They must take an oath to ensure that they will perform their duties fairly and without bias.

Notaries are typically used for the signing of real estate documents, such as purchase agreements and mortgages. They can also be used for the signing of other legal documents, such as wills and trusts.

When a document is signed in the presence of a notary, it is said to be "notarized." This adds an extra level of authentication and can help to prevent fraud.

If you need a document to be notarized, you can typically find a notary at your local bank or credit union. You will need to bring a photo ID, such as a driver's license, and the document that needs to be notarized. The notary will charge a fee for their services, which is typically around $10.

Notaries are an important part of the legal system. They help to ensure that documents are properly signed and witnessed. If you need a document to be notarized, be sure to find a reputable notary public who can help.

Home inspection checklist

1. Schedule the home inspection with a qualified inspector.

2. Make sure the inspector is licensed and insured.

3. Be present during the entire inspection.

4. Ask the inspector questions about what they are looking for and why.

5. Take pictures or videos of the inspection for your records.

Phases of Construction: Types of Inspections

Several types of inspections take place during the construction process. These inspections are important to ensure that the work is up to code and meets all safety requirements.

1. Foundation Inspection: This inspection takes place after the foundation has been poured but before any other work has begun. The inspector will check for cracks or other problems with the foundation.

2. Framing Inspection: This inspection takes place after the framing has been completed but before the interior walls are installed. The inspector will check the framing for any problems, such as rot or insect damage.

3. Plumbing Inspection: This inspection takes place after the plumbing has been installed but before the walls are closed in. The inspector will check the plumbing for any leaks or other problems.

4. Electrical Inspection: This inspection takes place after the electrical work has been completed but before the walls are closed in. The inspector will check the electrical system for any problems, such as loose wires or improper grounding.

5. Final Inspection: This inspection takes place after the home is completed but before the certificate of occupancy is issued. The inspector will check for any final problems, such as loose nails or cracked windows.

These are just some of the inspections that take place during construction. It's important to have each of these inspections done by a qualified inspector to ensure that the work is up to code and meets all safety requirements.

Commercial inspections

Commercial inspections are very important to the success of any business. Having a commercial inspection done can save you money and time in the long run by making sure that your property is up to code and safe for your employees. Here are seven things that you should look for during a commercial inspection:

1. Check for fire hazards: This is probably the most important thing to look for during a commercial inspection. Fire hazards can include things like overloaded electrical circuits, flammable liquids being stored improperly, and blocked exits.

2. Check for safety hazards: Safety hazards can include things like trip hazards, slippery floors, and exposed wiring.

3. Check for health hazards: Health hazards can include things like mold, lead paint, and asbestos.

4. Check the condition of the building: The condition of the building can affect things like the value of your property and your insurance rates.

5. Check for pests: Pests can include things like rodents, insects, and birds.

6. Check the plumbing: The plumbing should be checked for leaks, clogs, and backflow.

7. Check the heating and cooling: The heating and cooling system should be checked for proper operation and maintenance.

Commercial inspections are important to the success of any business. Having a commercial inspection done can save you money and time in the long run by making sure that your property is up to code and safe for your employees.

Importance of Home Inspections

A home inspection is an examination of the condition of a home. It is a thorough assessment of the home’s structure, systems, and components. A home inspector will look for any problems that could potentially cause expensive repairs or health and safety issues.

Home inspections are important for several reasons. First, they can give you peace of mind. If you are buying a home, an inspection can help you feel confident that you are making a sound investment. Second, they can help you avoid expensive surprises down the road. A thorough inspection can reveal hidden problems that would be expensive to fix. Finally, home inspections can help you negotiate a better price on the home you are buying. If the inspection reveals significant problems, you may be able to negotiate a lower purchase price.

While home inspections are not required by law, they are highly recommended. Whether you are buying or selling a home, an inspection can save you time, money, and headaches in the future.

Home inspection process

The home inspection process typically involves the following steps:

1. The inspector will arrive at the property and introduce themselves to the homeowner or real estate agent.

2. The inspector will walk around the outside of the property to look for any visible problems.

3. The inspector will go inside the property and turn on all the lights to look for any problems.

4. The inspector will test all the appliances, plumbing, and electrical systems to make sure they are in working order.

5. The inspector will take pictures of any problems that are found.

6. The inspector will write up a report detailing all the problems that were found.

Qualified home inspector

A qualified home inspector should have the following:

1. A minimum of two years of experience in the construction industry.

2. A valid driver’s license.

3. Home inspector liability insurance.

4. A clean criminal background check.

5. Certification from a reputable organization, such as the National Home Inspectors Association (NHIA) or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (IACHI).

6. A current and valid business license.

7. The ability to perform a thorough and objective inspection.