What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.
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What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

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 give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.
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What if the Homeowner (seller) has already had a Home Inspection? Should I still have my own Home Inspection performed (as a buyer)?

Absolutely! Why? Although it was smart, sensible and useful for the Homeowner to have a pre-listing Home Inspection performed - that Inspection was not performed for you as the client - and as such, the inspection report is not your report. As to say, that Inspector (or inspection company) has an agreed responsibility and legal confidentiality with the Homeowner (client), and has no such agreement that includes you (the buyer). 

As a buyer, there are likely a few or many variables related to the seller's Home Inspection that you or your Realtor are not aware of...

Such as:

• Any limitations in the inspection that may have been agreed upon between the Homeowners and their Inspector.
• The actual qualifications of the Homeowner's Inspector at the time of inspection.
• The validity of the inspection report - can you be 100% sure that report pages have not been removed, lost, or manipulated.
• Is the Homeowner's report even associated with the present Homeowner and not a previous homeowner? In fact - most all standard and legal Home Inspection agreements plainly state that the Inspector's report is non-transferable.  
• The validity of any stated or described repairs that may have been performed as related to the Homeowner's inspection report. Were the repairs actually completed? Were the repairs performed in a professional fashion by a qualified contractor?

What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services.

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, and professional affiliations as a guide.

WITH THAT SAID...one should also note that the most expensive inspection is not necessarily always going to be the best or even better than a sensibly priced inspection. In many cases - and particularly with the "Big Box" franchise companies, your inspection may have the exact same value - but will be more costly because you are also paying for that company's staffing, staff training, staff uniforming and tooling, office facility, group insurance, fleet maintenance, etc.  You should decide how much of that do you really need to pay for. You're already paying enough for your new home...and closing costs...and appraisal...and moving costs.  Think about it. A fair price is what your deserve.

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Why can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner 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.

Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.
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Can a house fail a home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. 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.
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When do I call a home inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
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Does All Property Evaluations LLC perform New Home Inspections?

Yes. A.P.E. is Certified and licensed to perform New Residential Inspections.

Do I have to be there?

While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.
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What if the report reveals problems?
A perfect house is a rare find. 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. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
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Will All Property Evaluations provide estimates of repair costs?

No. Such estimates will need to be obtained by qualified contractors. 

Will All Property Evaluations perform repairs on the inspected items of our property?

No. Repairs should be performed by qualified contractors or specialists.

Will All Property Evaluations refer specific contractors (by name) to perform repairs on our inspected property?

No. As a courtesy - when necessary - we will suggest the type of specialist or contractor that would typically perform certain repairs or evaluations.

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report, and will have that information for future reference.
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