What is it?
The home inspection is typically performed by the buyer, who hires a licensed inspector to ensure the home is in acceptable condition. Because a buyer and their inspector are responsible for any damage done to a home during an inspection, the inspection is considered a “Visual Inspection.” This doesn’t mean the inspector doesn’t due a lot of investigating and testing, but it does limit their ability in some situations.
A buyer should always hire an inspector who is trained and licensed in home inspections. Despite being legally capable of doing a home inspection, construction contractors are not recommended, as this is outside of their typical course of work and can cause conflicts.
The inspector will evaluate all systems of the home, and then generate a report for the client. Nearly all inspection reports are 30-50 pages long (even brand new construction), as it is a report rather than just a list of problems. The report typically includes several photos and pieces of information.
How Much Are They?
The cost of an inspection can vary, and the prices are set by the inspector. The typical cost ranges from $250-$600, depending on the complexity of the home and it’s systems.