Frequently Asked
Questions
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CAN I COMPLETE MY OWN HOME INSPECTION?
You could attempt to do so but it could prove to be a costly mistake. Licensed Home Inspectors are well-trained and uniquely skilled. They are familiar with many elements of home construction, materials and systems, and their proper installation and maintenance. Inspectors understand how the home’s systems and components are intended to work together, as well as how and why they fail. It can be difficult to be completely objective about a house involved in a real estate transaction. It is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion.
CAN I ATTEND THE INSPECTION?
Although attendance is not mandatory during an inspection, you are welcome to attend. Doing so provides you with a great opportunity to learn more about the property, ask questions, and ultimately give you a better understanding of how the home functions.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN MY HOME INSPECTION?
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An AccuTrust inspection includes an assessment of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation and everywhere between.
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Structural Components: Foundations, floors and walls, crawl spaces, basements, etc.
Exterior Components: Siding, trim, windows, doors, garage doors, decks, driveways, drainage systems, etc.
Roofing: Coverings & roofing materials, flashings, chimneys, vent pipes, guttering, skylights, etc.
Plumbing: Piping, fixtures, faucets, water heaters, fuel storage systems, etc.
Electrical: Wiring, main service panels, conductors, switches, receptacles, etc.
Heating: Equipment, safety controls, distribution systems, chimneys and flues, thermostats, filters, etc.
Air Conditioning & Heat Pumps: Cooling and air handling equipment, controls and ducting, thermostats, etc.
Interior: Partitions, ceilings, floors, railings, doors and windows, etc.
Insulation & Ventilation: Attics, walls, floors, foundations, kitchens and bathrooms, etc.
HOW LONG DOES A TYPICAL HOME INSPECTION TAKE TO COMPLETE?
The exact time of a home inspection will vary based on the age, size, and condition of the property. Most inspections however will last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.
A MINOR PROBLEM HAS PRESENTED ITSELF SINCE I MOVED INTO MY HOME. WERE THESE MISSED DURING MY INSPECTION?
It is important to remember that our priority is to identify major issues – the ones that may affect your decision to purchase the home. We are looking for the expensive, financially significant problems. Minor issues may be noted but they are not the primary focus. Some problems may also only be evident by living in a home. For example, a shower stall that leaks while in use may not leak when the tap is assessed during an inspection. To that same effect, a roof or basement may only leak under certain weather conditions. And other issues might not be evident until carpets are lifted, furniture is moved, etc. Beyond issues that are only evident under certain conditions, others may not present any clues to their existence at all. Inspections are based on the past and current performance of a home, so it is unfair to assume inspectors should be able to predict future problems that may arise.
MY HOME IS NEW CONSTRUCTION. DO I NEED AN INSPECTION?
Do not assume that because a home is newly built that it is free from defects. Unfortunately, some builders are primarily concerned with how fast and cheap a home can be built. This can result in construction errors. Protect yourself and your investment by having a well-trained inspector assess the condition of your new home.
HOW MUCH DOES AN INSPECTION COST?
Home inspection fees are based on a few factors such as the size of the home as well as its age. Please visit our fees page for a breakdown of current rates.
