WIN Home Inspection offers perspective on how to assess and move forward
Most leading real estate agents would agree that while appraisals are used most often, sellers and potential buyers can’t go wrong with a home inspection. Finding a quality home inspector is important to the homeowner’s safety as well as the condition of the home. Hiring a home inspector is the first step and the most important when it comes to a home’s current state and future re-development.
A professional inspector should be looking at all aspects of the home, from drainage systems to the insulation, walls and plumbing. It is important that the inspector gives a detailed explanation what the problems are, as well as possible ways to approach the problem. A professional inspector will first inspect the roof, the area that is most likely to be damaged in a strong storm. They will check flashings around wind turbines, chimney rain covers, skylights and plumbing vents to prevent future leaking. They will also be able to locate holes in the roof from flying debris and limbs that will need to be resealed and secured.
A qualified home inspector will also walk the interior and perimeter of the house to assess anything in need of repair including windows, electrical wires, foundation, flooding issues and more.
There are few, but important, steps in finding a home inspector that fits you and your home best:
· Try to work with a real estate agent to obtain a minimum of three recommendations of inspectors. From there do your own research on home inspectors in your area to find one that is right for you.
· Look for an inspector who is associated with the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Institution of Building Inspectors (NIBI) to make sure that they are certified and trained.
· Make sure the home inspector is comfortable with the homeowner being present and asking questions during the inspection. A quality home inspector will usually prefer that the homeowner is there and is a part of the process.
· Inspectors should list problems in the home that are easily fixed by the homeowner, such as a clogged bathroom drain or a broken window latch.
· It is important to make sure that the home inspector is insured in case anything is damage something during the inspection.
· The home inspector should provide a narrative-style report that includes pictures, detailing the problems that they found within the home.
· Make sure that the inspector is looking at all the aspects of your home, from the condition and age of the roof, to the foundation, walls, insulation, grading, electrical systems, plumbing, condition of windows and doors, appliances, the condition of heating and cooling systems, flooring and fireplaces.
WIN Home Inspection began in 1993, offering home inspection business franchises in the
A member of the VetFran Chairman’s Corps, WIN is a recognized leader on behalf of veterans and the franchise industry. For information on WIN Home Inspection and the home inspection business opportunity, call 800-967-8127 or www.wini.com or www.winfranchising.com.
