Frequently Asked Questions

A home inspection is a non-invasive examination of the accessible systems and components of a residential property, which is typically conducted during the home-buying process. The purpose of a home inspection is to provide the buyer with information about the condition of the property and any potential issues that may need to be addressed.

In Massachusetts and Rhode Island, home inspectors are required to follow a set of standards of practice that outline the scope and limitations of the inspection. The Massachusetts and Rhode Island standards of practice are similar, and both require the inspector to examine the following areas of the home:

  1. Structural Components: The inspector will examine the foundation, roof, walls, and other structural elements of the home to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.
  2. Exterior: The inspector will examine the exterior of the home, including the siding, windows, doors, and any attached decks or porches, to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.
  3. Roofing: The inspector will examine the roofing system, including the shingles, flashing, and gutters, to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.
  4. Plumbing: The inspector will examine the plumbing system, including the water supply and drainage systems, to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.
  5. Electrical: The inspector will examine the electrical system, including the service panel, wiring, and outlets, to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.
  6. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC): The inspector will examine the HVAC system, including the furnace, air conditioner, and ductwork, to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.
  7. Interior: The inspector will examine the interior of the home, including the walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.
  8. Insulation and Ventilation: The inspector will examine the insulation and ventilation of the home, including the attic and crawl spaces, to ensure they are in good condition and not in need of repair.

The home inspector will provide a written report that summarizes their findings and identifies any issues that need to be addressed. It is important to note that a home inspection is not a guarantee of the condition of the property, but rather a snapshot of its condition at the time of the inspection.

A home inspection in Massachusetts and Rhode Island typically includes a non-invasive, visual examination of the readily accessible areas of a residential property, including its interior and exterior components. The following areas are generally covered during a home inspection:

  1. Structural Components: This includes the foundation, framing, roof, walls, floors, and other structural components of the home.
  2. Exterior Components: This includes the exterior walls, doors, windows, trim, siding, and other components of the home’s exterior.
  3. Roofing: This includes the roof covering materials, flashing, gutters, downspouts, and other components of the roof.
  4. Plumbing: This includes the water supply and drainage systems, fixtures, faucets, water heaters, and other plumbing components.
  5. Electrical: This includes the electrical service, wiring, outlets, switches, fixtures, and other electrical components.
  6. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC): This includes the heating and cooling systems, ductwork, chimneys, flues, and other components of the HVAC system. (Weather permitting: we cannot test air conditioning units if the exterior temperature is less than 65 degrees because we may damage the exterior condenser for the system.)
  7. Interior Components: This includes the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, stairs, and other interior components of the home.
  8. Insulation and Ventilation: This includes the insulation, ventilation, and moisture control systems in the home.
  9. Fireplaces and Chimneys: This includes the interior fireplace and exterior chimney components, including the damper, firebox, and flue. (We do not check the interior of the chimney. You should have a full evaluation of your chimney by a qualified contractor BEFORE the close of the sale.)

The inspection will typically identify any defects, damage, or safety concerns related to these components and may also identify any necessary repairs or maintenance. However, it is important to note that a home inspection is not a code inspection and the inspector will not report on items that are not visible or accessible, or provide guarantees or warranties on the condition of the property.

There are several reasons why you should consider getting a home inspection when buying or selling a property. Here are some of the main benefits of a home inspection:

  1. Identify potential problems: A home inspection can help identify any potential problems or safety hazards in a property, such as faulty wiring, leaks, or structural issues. This can help you make a more informed decision about whether to buy or sell the property and can also give you an idea of any repairs or maintenance that may be needed.
  2. Negotiate repairs: If the inspection reveals any issues, you may be able to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price with the seller. This can help you avoid costly surprises down the line.
  3. Ensure safety: A home inspection can help ensure that the property is safe, which is especially important for issues that could pose a safety risk, such as faulty electrical wiring or a leaky roof.
  4. Plan for future maintenance: A home inspection can also give you an idea of any future maintenance or repairs that may be needed, which can help you plan and budget accordingly.
  5. Peace of mind: Ultimately, a home inspection can give you peace of mind and help you feel confident in your decision to buy or sell a property. Knowing the true condition of a property can help you avoid unexpected expenses and make a more informed decision about whether it is the right investment for you.

If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can allow you to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

The cost of a home inspection can vary depending on several factors, including the location, size, and age of the property, possible optional services such as septic, well, or radon testing, as well as the scope of the inspection and the experience and qualifications of the inspector. In Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the average cost of a home inspection is typically between $400 and $600.

It’s important to note that while the cost of a home inspection may seem like an additional expense, it can ultimately save you money by identifying any potential problems or repairs that may be needed. In some cases, the cost of the inspection may even be negotiated with the seller or included as a contingency in the purchase contract.

When selecting a home inspector, it’s important to look for someone who is experienced and qualified, and who has a good reputation in the industry. You may also want to ask for references or check online reviews to ensure that you are getting the best possible service for your money.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.

Even the most experienced homeowner or buyer lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance, and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

While it’s certainly possible for a homeowner or buyer to conduct their own inspection of a property, there are several reasons why it’s generally not recommended:

  1. Lack of expertise: Professional home inspectors have years of experience and training in identifying potential issues and safety hazards in a property, and know what to look for in terms of signs of wear and tear and, damage. Without this expertise, it can be difficult for a homeowner to accurately assess the condition of a property and identify potential problems.
  2. Bias: As a homeowner, you may have an emotional attachment to the property or may overlook potential issues due to your familiarity with the property. A professional inspector will provide an objective assessment of the property, without any emotional attachment or bias.
  3. Safety concerns: Some aspects of a home inspection can be dangerous and require specialized safety equipment and training. A professional inspector will have the necessary safety equipment and training to conduct a thorough inspection without putting themselves or the property at risk.
  4. Liability: If you miss a potential issue or safety hazard during your DIY inspection, you could be held liable for any damages or repairs that result. A professional inspector carries liability insurance and will provide a comprehensive report that outlines any potential issues or safety hazards on the property.

Overall, while it may seem tempting to conduct your own inspection to save money, it’s generally recommended to hire a professional home inspector to ensure a thorough and accurate assessment of the property.

No, a house cannot technically “fail” a home inspection. A home inspection is not a pass-or-fail test. Rather, it is an objective evaluation of the condition of a property at a specific point in time. The inspector will identify any potential issues or safety hazards in the property and provide a detailed report of their findings.

While the inspection report may identify issues that need to be addressed or repaired, it is ultimately up to the buyer and seller to negotiate any repairs or changes to the sale price based on the inspection results. If the seller is unwilling to make necessary repairs or adjustments to the sale price, the buyer may choose to walk away from the transaction.

It’s important to remember that a home inspection is not a guarantee that a property is free of defects or problems. Rather, it is an opportunity to identify potential issues and make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the sale or negotiate repairs or adjustments to the sale price.

It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

There are several ways to find a qualified and experienced home inspector:

  1. Referrals: Ask your friends, family, and colleagues if they have used a home inspector in the past and if they would recommend them. Word-of-mouth referrals can be a great way to find a trusted inspector.
  2. Online directories: There are several online directories of home inspectors that you can use to find a qualified inspector in your area. Some popular directories include the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI).
  3. Real estate agents: Your real estate agent may be able to provide a list of recommended home inspectors in your area. Keep in mind that some agents may have a preferred inspector that they work with, so be sure to do your research to ensure that you are getting the best possible service.
  4. Professional organizations: Look for home inspectors who are members of professional organizations, such as ASHI or InterNACHI. These organizations typically have strict standards and requirements for their members, which can provide an additional level of confidence in the inspector’s qualifications and experience.
  5. Online reviews: Check online review sites, such as Yelp or Google, to see what previous clients have to say about their experiences with different home inspectors in your area. Be sure to read a variety of reviews to get a well-rounded view of the inspector’s strengths and weaknesses.

Once you have a list of potential inspectors, be sure to ask about their experience, qualifications, and pricing. You may also want to ask for references or examples of past inspection reports to ensure that you are getting the best possible service for your money.

While it’s not required for you to be present during a home inspection, it is highly recommended. Being present during the inspection allows you to ask questions and address any concerns that you may have about the property in real time. You can also see any issues or areas of concern firsthand, which can be helpful in understanding the inspection report.

Additionally, many inspectors will provide valuable tips and advice on how to maintain and care for the property during the inspection. Being present will allow you to learn about the property and its systems, which can be helpful in the long run.

If you cannot be present during the inspection, be sure to communicate your concerns and questions to the inspector ahead of time. You can also request a detailed inspection report and follow up with any questions or concerns after the inspection is complete.

 

If the home inspection report reveals problems, it’s important to carefully review the report and discuss any concerns with your real estate agent and the home inspector. The report may include recommendations for further evaluation by a specialist or contractor, and it’s important to follow up on these recommendations to fully understand the extent and severity of any problems.

Once you have a clear understanding of the issues identified in the inspection report, you can work with your real estate agent to decide on the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the problems, you may choose to negotiate with the seller for repairs or a reduction in the sale price, or you may decide to walk away from the transaction.

It’s important to remember that the home inspection report is a snapshot of the property’s condition at a specific point in time, and some issues may be relatively minor and easily addressed. However, other issues may be more significant and require more extensive repairs or changes to the sale price. Be sure to carefully consider your options and work with your real estate agent and the home inspector to make an informed decision about how to proceed.

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you.

Even if the home inspection report indicates that the house is in good condition, having an inspection is still a valuable investment. A home inspection can provide peace of mind and help you to make an informed decision about the purchase of the property.

In addition to identifying any issues or areas of concern, a home inspection can also provide valuable information about the property’s systems and maintenance needs. This information can help understand how to care for and maintain the property over time, which can save you money and prevent future problems.

Finally, a home inspection report can also be used as a reference for future repairs or improvements, even if no major issues are identified during the initial inspection. By having a clear understanding of the property’s condition and any potential areas of concern, you can make informed decisions about how to best maintain and improve the property over time.

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Striler Home Inspections – Your trusted, local home inspection company. We proudly service Eastern Massachusetts, including Plymouth, Bristol, Barnstable, Norfolk County, and parts of Rhode Island.

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