Home Inspection FAQs

Have questions about our home inspection services? We’re here to help!

• What exactly is a home inspection?

  A standard home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and major interior systems of a residential building using the latest tools and technology.

• What does a standard home inspection include?

  During a home inspection, the inspector will review the readily accessible exposed portions of the structure of the home for potential problems. Items inspected include the exterior, the roof, attic, the interior, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, basement and foundation, as well as the heating/air conditioning systems, interior plumbing and electrical systems. We will provide you with a detailed electronic report including digital pictures, videos and descriptions of any issues found.

• Why is a home inspection so important?

  The purchase of a home is one the largest single investments you will ever make. With that in mind, it is extremely important that you learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the possible need for any major repairs before making the purchase. A home inspection with Wright Choice Property Inspection helps minimize the possibility of unpleasant surprises, unexpected costs and post-purchase headaches. Throughout your inspection, your inspector will even give you maintenance tips that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the home inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase, giving you confidence and peace of mind.

• When is the proper time to order a home inspection?

  A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement with the seller has been signed and depending on the home inspector’s schedule.

• Do I have to be present for the home inspection?

  We always invite our customers to be part of the home inspection experience! It’s a great chance for you to get to know your house before you make it your home. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions directly, you will learn firsthand about the condition of the home, become familiar with all its features and components, and you will get to know how various systems work and how to maintain them. If for any reason you cannot attend the home inspection, we provide you with a detailed electronic report, including digital pictures, videos and descriptions of any issues found.

• How long does a home inspection last?

  A home inspection typically takes anywhere from 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

• How much does a home inspection cost?

  Our home inspections are based off of square footage of the home. Additional factors may include: the size, unique features of the home, its age, and any optional testing that may be desired. Small or large home, you can rest assured each of our customers receive the same quality service!

  It’s always a good idea to compare prices from several different home inspection services in your area, paying close attention to exactly what is included with the price.

  Contact Wright Choice Property Inspection to get an estimate.

• Do I need a septic inspection?

  Some inspections are best left to professionals specializing in that field of work. We always recommend having your septic system inspected. Most home inspectors will offer a “dye test” for the septic system. We do not believe this to be an accurate inspection or an accurate representation of the septic system. Call a local professional that specializes in septic systems to evaluate and document the conditions of the system.

• Do you inspect pools/spas?

  Again, we believe this is best left to a professional that specializes in pools to perform a detailed inspection.

• Is a home inspection just for new home buyers?

  Not at all. It’s also for existing homeowners! A home inspection may be considered in order to identify problems in the making, and to learn important preventive measures to avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, you also may wish to have a home inspection prior to placing your home on the market. This will give you a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer’s home inspection, and an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

• Can a home actually “fail” a home inspection?

  Realistically speaking, no. A home inspection is merely a thorough examination of the home’s current condition. It is neither an appraisal (which determines market value) nor a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. Most home inspection professionals, therefore, will not “pass” or “fail” a house, but will accurately and objectively describe its physical condition and indicate potential problems or concerns.

• What if my inspector finds problems during the home inspection?

  First of all, it’s important to remember that virtually no home is perfect. If your home inspector does identify some problems during the home inspection, it doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. What’s more, you may be able to negotiate the purchase price of the home with the seller if significant problems are found, which will help you offset the required repair costs.

• If the house checks out, did I really need a home inspection in the first place?

  Most certainly, yes. Now that your new home has been thoroughly inspected, you can complete your home purchase with confidence in its overall condition and its vital systems and components. You will also have become knowledgeable about your new home’s structure and systems, and can keep that information handy for future reference.