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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSWhat is a Property Inspection?A property inspection is an objective visual analysis of a building's structure and systems. An inspection will determine the areas of the property that are not performing properly, as well as items that are beyond their useful life or are unsafe. Inspections include areas of the building's interior and exterior, from the roof to the foundation and the exterior drainage and retaining walls. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation. A property inspection is a visual inspection to determine problems or conditions that exist at the time of the inspection. A property inspection is not a warranty. A warranty can be obtained separately. Why Do I Need a Property Inspection?The purchase of a property is a significant financial investment. It is important that you know as much as possible about your purchase. A certified property inspector is trained to be able to evaluate the property in detail and give you a report that will allow you to make an informed decision about the purchase. An inspection report will describe the details and will highlight the areas that are problems. A property inspection is a good idea even if you already own the property. We all get physical checkups--why not give your property a checkup? Many property owners are living in structures that have serious problems that, if identified early, can save considerable repair costs. For instance, water leaks can cause serious and costly problems, but if they are caught early, they can be repaired at little cost. A property inspection will also give you an outline of the routine and deferred maintenance items that need to be done to the property. Property sellers will want an inspection to find problems that a buyer's inspection would have found. The seller can then make the repairs prior to the property going on the market. What to Look for in a Property InspectorExperience:Find out how much experience a potential inspector has. If an inspector has not been performing inspections very long, that does not mean that he or she is not qualified, it just means that you will need to ask more questions. Property Inspection Training:Has the inspector gone through extensive training in property inspection and, most importantly, does he or she continue to take specialized courses to keep current on trends in the industry? There are several training companies that provide hands-on training. Also, you may ask what other related experience the inspector has. Many inspectors have been in the building trades for many years and have considerable knowledge of building construction. Association Membership:Is the inspector a member of professional inspection organizations, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the International Code Council (ICC)? Companies that are affiliated with professional organizations are serious about what they do, and they know about new developments in their fields. They are continually informed and required to educate themselves about property defects, changes in the building codes and municipal requirements. Inspectors who belong to these national associations also must agree to abide by a set of guidelines that require professionalism and integrity in the industry. What Does a Typical Home Inspection Include?The property inspector's report will review the condition of the property's heating system, plumbing, electrical system and central air conditioning system, as well as the roof, attic, visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, basement, landscaping, and visible structure. What Will a Typical Property Inspection Cost?Each property inspection company has their own pricing structure. Inspection fees vary based on the type of inspection and the type, size, and features of the property and buildings. A typical residential inspection fee will be between $.12 to $.15 per square foot, depending on the age and whether or not the pool/spa or sprinkler system is included in the inspection. Commercial building inspections range from $.15 to $.25 per square foot depending on the number of buildings, pools and spas and whether an American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) inspection is included. The cost of the inspection should not be the only consideration for hiring an inspector. A good inspector that informs you about the property and all the potential problems or defects on the property is well worth the money and may save you thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in undiscovered defects and/or deferred maintenance issues. A bargain inspector may overlook critical systems and components or be unable to properly diagnose defects or deferred maintenance and give you an inferior report. Once you have purchased the property, it may be very costly to repair problems that were never identified in the inspection report. Can I Do the Inspection Myself?Most prospective buyers look for a property that will meet their business or personal needs. The prospective buyer is not able to look at the property with the unbiased critical eye of a property inspector. Even a buyer with construction experience does not have the knowledge, training or tools of a property inspector. A good inspector is trained and experienced in finding the clues in a property that indicate problems. These clues are sometimes very subtle and hard to find. Most good inspectors use tools that help them determine problems. Most qualified inspectors have performed thousands of inspections and are familiar with how certain building materials and systems perform in our harsh desert climate. When Purchasing, When Should I Call for an Inspection?When purchasing a residential property, you will want to have the home inspected within a few days after the purchase agreement is signed. The Arizona real estate contract allows for a 10-day inspection period. Commercial property transactions allow for a minimum 30-day inspection period. You want to make sure you have a clause in your purchase agreement that allows you to have an inspection and that you have the right to terminate the agreement if you find the property is not acceptable to you. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated. What if the Inspection Report Reveals Problems?There is rarely a perfect property. Almost all properties have some problems or deferred maintenance issues. Even newly constructed buildings will have problems noted on an inspection report. This is why we recommend an inspection even for new construction. Your inspector will be able to identify major problems that will be costly. Minor problems are to be expected and can be repaired after closing. Major problems may require a negotiation between you and the seller as to how to fix the problems. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If the problems are costly, you will be able to make your decision about purchasing the property with a complete understanding about the property's current condition and future costs. So what are you waiting for ...
We are here to serve you--to
answer ALL of your questions and to give you the peace of mind of knowing as
much as possible about the property, what it has to offer and what needs to be repaired. Call
today!
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Rich Schaefer |
Experience Counts:
With over 35
years of experience in Southwest construction methods, Rich has the knowledge to thoroughly
understand our unique building environment. His keen sense of observation and investigative
abilities enable him to find defects that others may overlook. He utilizes his strong people and
communications skills to translate his findings into information that is meaningful for you and your specific
situation.
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