What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. This service can be of benefit to both buyers and sellers of homes.
What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.
Check out the Washington State Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics for further details. http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=308-408C
Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could very well be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence. If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest
preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition. This is considered a Pre-Listing Home Inspection and very valuable in this type of high competitive market.
What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age, and location. Here is a link to our pricing schedule. http://www.keyinspectionservices.com/schedule-an-inspection/
Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. As the saying goes often times you get what you pay for.
Generally the fee runs from $275 for a condo to $500 for an older house.
Can I do the inspection myself?
The biggest problem is remaining objective to the process. Particularly when you are purchasing a home. Generally people create blinders and don’t really objective see the problems. When selling a house this can be a bit easier process. If you would like to learn more about preparing your home for inspection visit our products websites @ www.EZ2Inspect.com
Can my house fail its home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house at the particular time/date of the inspection. It’s not a yes/no answer to a homes quality. It’s an objective analysis of the major components of the home. Looking for major safety, structural concerns which may impact the occupants of the home.
A city inspector will “fail” an inspection based on “code” requirements. Codes are the minimal health/safety requirements for installation of new components (i.e. electrical panel, water heater, etc.)
When do I hire a home inspector?
For a pre-purchase inspection a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Your realtor will generally put in the purchase agreement the home is “Subject to” inspection. This gives you the buyer an out if the house doesn’t meet your needs after the inspection has been completed.
For a pre-sell inspection we can come out anytime you are available. We recommend allotting 3-4 hours for the full inspection. You can schedule online @ http://www.keyinspectionservices.com/schedule-an-inspection/
Do I have to be present for the home inspection?
Understanding everyone has a busy schedule this is one meeting we highly recommend you attend. This will give you the buyer/seller the most onsite education about your home/condo or townhouse. The onsite inspection portion is a very important part of the inspection process. If at all possible we recommend attending. Though we do provide a very thorough inspection report with pictures. You can download a sample @ http://www.keyinspectionservices.com/
What if the inspector finds major concerns?
One must understand a home is built by people. People i.e. humans can make errors. Online the computer you are reading this from is always perfect…Huh Micro-squashees 
Really every home has some problems some minor some major. It’s important to understand the difference both by home inspector education as well as obtaining expert opinion (i.e. foundation contractors, electrician’s, etc.).
My home is perfect why should I inspect it?
3 Simple reasons, one when was the last time you were on your roof, in your attic, and/or in your crawlspace? Major safety & health hazards linger throughout your home, some easy and visible while other take a very trained eye to find. A small 3-500 investment to find these hazard before the become significant or become deal killers is a wise investment.