What a home inspection IS...and IS NOT.

What a home inspection IS...

A home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the condition of the home and property.

The process usually takes two to three hours, during which time the house is examined from the ground up. The inspection includes observation and, when appropriate, operation of the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and built-in appliance systems, as well as structural components: roof, attic, foundation, basement, exterior and interior walls, chimney, doors etc. When conducted by a professional, a home inspection covers about 1,000 check-points in approximately 400 items around the home.

Findings should be provided to you in the form of a comprehensive report together with a recommended action. It is vital that such a report includes an objective evaluation of the condition of the home, clearly relating existing defects and indicating potential problems.

and IS NOT...

A home inspection is not an appraisal, and vice versa.

An appraisal is the formal process of estimating a property’s value as it relates to a mortgage loan or mortgage insurance. It does not itemize defects or reflect potential problems in the home. Even a CMHC (spell-out?) appraisal does not fully attest to the condition of a home. To ensure an objective evaluation of a home’s condition, many lenders encourage home buyers to use private inspection services, and some employers reimburse home inspection fees as part of their relocation programs.

A home inspection report is not a warranty

Because a home inspection is a visual examination of the home and operating systems, it is not technically exhaustive. There is no assurance, expressed or implied, that equipment will not break down at some future date. However, such protection is available when a home inspection is complemented by a home warranty. When the services are used in conjunction with one another, a home warranty covers the items that were serviceable at the time of the inspection and subsequently fail due to normal wear and tear.

A home inspection does not detect every conceivable flaw

It is an inspection of those areas and items that can be seen. Home inspectors cannot see through foundation, floors or walls, and cannot inspect areas or items that are inaccessible and generally do not move furniture.

Why Perform a Home Inspection?

Home inspections are an essential component for real estate transactions for millions of buyers, sellers, and real estate agents, banks, mortgage brokers, etc. Whether you are shopping for a previously-owned house or a brand new house, an inspection provides insight to the condition of the home you are buying. If you are putting your house on the market, an inspection helps hasten the sale and can generate a higher price. And if you are a real estate agent, a professional home inspection report serves as an ideal marketing tool that also helps protect you against post-closing hassles.

In essence, a home inspection is a visual examination of a house and property. When performed by a qualified professional, it includes:

• A thorough visual inspection of the structure (inside and out, from foundation to roof).

• An examination of all major systems.

• An objective evaluation of the condition of more than 400 items.

• A printed report covering all findings and identifying potential concerns.

An Industry Leader

AmeriSpec was founded in 1987. Since our inception, we have performed over 1.5 million inspections. As a recognized industry leader, we perform an average of over 110,000 inspections annually in the U.S. and Canada. With more than 250 franchises in the U.S. and Canada we welcome the opportunity to serve you.