Frequently Asked  Questions

Q: What Is A “Home Inspection”?

A:  A Home Inspection is like giving the home a physical check-up. An objective visual examination of the structure, components and systems of the home will be inspected. The home inspector may recommend further evaluation if “symptoms”, or problems may be potential safety hazards, or lead to major expenditures.    

Q: What Does A Home Inspection Include?

A: A typical Home Inspection covers external conditions and surfaces; such as grading, siding, roof, decks, driveways, walkways, doors and windows. Appliances, plumbing, and electrical systems are evaluated. The heating and cooling system will be operated and inspected to ensure safe, proper, operation and installation. Interior areas walls, ceilings, doors and other components will be included in the inspection.  Attic insulation & ventilation, basement walls, crawl space insulation & ventilation. Visible foundation, slab, floor, and structural issues will be addressed. 

Q: Why Do I Need A Home Inspection?

A: Buying a home is not something you do everyday, you want to know that the home is safe, structurally and mechanically sound, free of health risks, and eliminate any unwelcomed surprises. Our detailed Home Inspection Report will provide you with information that will assist you in making a confident decision concerning a major investment.

Q: What will it Cost?

A: Home Inspection fees will vary for a typical one-family home, as does the cost of housing. Variables can include location, size, age, inspector, and additional services.

Cost alone should not be the deciding factor whether or not to have a home inspection, or in your selection of your home Inspector. The lowest-priced inspector may not be a good deal. The inspector’s qualifications, experience, training, and professional affiliations should be the #1 consideration.

The Knowledge gained from a thorough home inspection is a value that exceeds the price.      

Q: Can’t I do it myself?

A: Most buyers will find it very difficult to remain objective and unemotional about a home they really want and may already love. It is best to obtain an impartial third-party expert in the home inspection field for the most accurate information.

Even the most skilled home owners lack the knowledge and expertise of an inspector that has inspected hundreds of homes in their career. An experienced certified inspector is familiar with the construction process, all of the components involved, how the systems are intended to function, why they fail, and must be able determine if the proper installation, and maintenance requirements have been preformed.

Many Lenders and Mortgage Companies require a professional inspection report.     

Q: Can a House Fail Inspection?

A: No. A professional home inspector will not pass are fail a house, but provides valuable information about the condition of the home, its components and systems, in addition to reporting any deficiencies or potential failures that affect the safety, condition, and value of the home.    

Q: When do I call in the Home Inspector?

A: Your Home Inspector should be contacted right after the purchase agreement or contract is signed to schedule your inspection.  Before you sign be sure to verify that an inspection clause is in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of the home inspection.

Q: How long will the Home Inspection Take?

A: The average inspection will take two to three hours, but may take longer depending on the size, age, and condition of the home.

Q: Do I have to be there?

A: No you are not required to attend the inspection, but it is recommended. You will be able to observe the inspection process, and ask any questions you may have as you learn about the condition of the home and how the systems work.

Q: When will I receive my Inspection Report?

A: Your Inspection Report will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours following the inspection unless other arrangements are agreed upon.

Q: What if the Inspection Report reveals problems?

A: No house is perfect; the inspection report is to provide you information to assist you in making an important, life changing decision. Most problems that are revealed can be resolved between the buyer and the seller, often a price adjustment is negotiated, or repairs made at the sellers expense, if the inspection uncovers a “Money Pit”, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.

Q: If the house proves to be in good Condition, did I really need an Inspection?

A: Definitely. We understand once you decide to have the home inspected you have found a home you wish to purchase. If the house proves to be in good condition, you can continue the buying process with added confidence. You will also have learned many things about your new home from the inspection report, and will want to keep that information for future reference.

For the Best Home Inspector in Your Neighborhood
including but not limited to...
Atlanta, Ga., Fayetteville, Ga., Griffin, Ga.,
McDonough, Ga., and Newnan, Ga.
Call Alert! Home Inspections
770-573-4841