Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. Although there is typically no requirement for a home inspection, it makes sense that you will want to learn as much as you can about the home before you buy it.
Home inspectors are trained to identify the need for major repairs, builder oversights, and safety concerns, as well as the need for maintenance to keep the home in good shape. In addition, home inspectors have fewer limitations than buyers and will inspect components such as the interior of the electrical panel and operate the furnace to identify any concerns.
The knowledge and information obtained from the home inspection will allow you to make your home buying decision with confidence.
Are home inspectors required to be licensed in the State of New Hampshire?
Home inspectors are required to be licensed in the state of New Hampshire as of January 1, 2010. Home inspections conducted by us are completed in accordance with the standards of practice established by the Laws and Administrative Rules governing New Hampshire licensed home inspectors.
Are home inspectors required to complete continuing education?
Home inspectors must complete a minimum of twenty hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their license in the state of New Hampshire.
What is inspected during a home inspection?
We will inspect the general condition of the central heating and cooling systems, plumbing fixtures, piping and water heater, electrical system, structural condition, foundation, basement, crawl space, attic, general interior, exposed insulation, exposed fireplace and chimney, general exterior, roof, siding, gutters, drainage, and grading, as well as identify the presence of any wood-destroying insects.
We also provide the buyer with valuable information concerning the maintenance and safety of the home.
Approximately how long does a home inspection take to complete?
Depending on the size and age of the home, the length of time for the home inspection will typically be between 1 ½ to 3 ½ hours.
What are some risks of not getting a home inspection?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. The home inspection is an opportunity for the buyer to identify issues before closing that could turn into costly repairs or a major liability.
Without a home inspection, the buyer risks leaving potential issues undiscovered until after closing.
Why do some homes have to deal with ice dams?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage. Methods to prevent ice damming can be discussed at the time of the home inspection.
Why is exterior grading important?
The ground level and grading around your house are important to manage the flow of stormwater.
Negative grading, where the ground slopes toward the building, contributes to excess water pooling against the foundation wall and creates the potential for moisture penetrate into the home. Proper grading that is sloping away from home is imperative to ensure drainage of water away from the building.
Can a house fail a home inspection?
A home inspection is not subject to a pass or fail grading system. Unlike a municipal building inspection, home inspections performed for buyers do not verify local code compliance, and unlike an appraisal, home inspections do not determine market value.
A home inspection is a snapshot in time as to the conditions of the home at the time the inspection is conducted.
When do I schedule my home inspection?
Typically a home inspection is scheduled immediately after a contract to purchase a home is signed. We will schedule your inspection to accommodate the schedule of the buyer, seller, and real estate agents, and for compliance within the terms of your contract.
The sooner a home inspection is scheduled, the smoother the home buying process will be.
Do I need to attend the home inspection?
It is not required that a buyer attend the home inspection, but it is preferred and highly recommended. By being present during the inspection, you will observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.
However, if you are unable to attend, the inspection report you will receive from us will detail the same information that would be conveyed to you in person, and incorporate digital photographs depicting any areas of concern.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t purchase the home, only that you will know in advance what to expect. You will know the issues that you may choose to take care of after closing or negotiate with the seller to make the repairs prior to closing.