Home Inspections
Every house has defects. Some are easy to spot; others are
hidden. Some are trivial; others are more serious.
Defects in a home may affect your decision to buy, as well as
the price you’re willing to pay. That’s why it’s important
to have your real estate agent include an inspection contingency
in your purchase contract. This allows you time before your
purchase becomes final to hire a home inspector to conduct a
pre-purchase home inspection. The home inspector will evaluate
and inform you of the physical condition of the home you want to
buy.
A standard home inspection covers a home’s major mechanical
systems – electrical, plumbing, and heating and air
conditioning, as well as its construction from roof to
foundation, exterior to interior. Your inspector may also
provide you with additional information beyond the actual
inspection regarding home repairs and maintenance.
The best way to find a qualified home inspector is through
referrals from your real estate agent, friends and colleagues.
Interview the inspector or inspection firm about reputation, the
type of report provided, insurance coverage, guarantees, etc.
The most important thing is to make sure the home inspector
is registered with the state. Starting November 1, 1998, all
Wisconsin home inspectors must be state registered in order to
conduct home inspections. Registration by the Wisconsin
Department of Regulation and Licensing obligates the home
inspector to pass an exam and follow specific standards of
practice, as well as provides a place for consumers to turn to
if they need to file a complaint against an inspector.
Here are some other questions you should ask before hiring a
home inspector:
- How long has the company been in the home inspection
business?
- How many inspections has the individual conducting my
inspection performed?
- Can I accompany the inspector on the inspection?
- Will you provide me with a professional inspection report
immediately after the inspection?
- Will your report indicate the ages of all major elements?
- Are your inspectors covered by E & O Insurance?
- Is there Workers Compensation Insurance coverage on your
inspectors?
- Does your company include any guarantee in the inspection
report?
- What protection does your company offer against
deficiencies found after purchase?
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