Question 1

What is a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

A home inspection is a visual examination of the home's major structure, systems and components that are visible and safely accessible.  The inspector should substantially adhere to a standards of practice that outlines what should be covered during a general home inspection, as well as what is excluded. Some inspectors may strictly follow the standards of practice, while others may exceed the standards and inspect other items, or perform a more detailed inspection. Whatever the inspector includes in his or her inspection should be discussed prior to the inspection – this is known as the scope of work. The inspector should be able to provide you with a copy or online link to the standards of practice they follow.  The inspector should provide you with a written report, which may include photos and/or recommendations, of his or her findings of the inspection.  Read InterNACHI's Standards of Practice to find out what is typically included and excluded in a home inspection.

Question 2

Why should I get a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

Buying a home is typically the biggest investment you will ever make, so it's important to get a home inspection because the inspector should be able to discover and document defects that may or may not be obvious to you as a prospective buyer.  Such defects can range from simple replacements or repairs, to severe damage or safety and health concerns. Additionally, most mortgage companies require a home inspection on a property before approving the home loan.

Question 3

How can I be sure that a home inspector is qualified?

Accepted Answer

The state of California does not require home inspectors to be licensed.  However, you should make sure that your home inspector is trained and certified.  
The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors – InterNACHI® – is the largest and most trusted home inspector association in the world.  Its members undergo rigorous training to become Certified Professional Inspectors (CPIs)®.  They also follow a Standards of Practice and adhere to a Code of Ethics.    Find out if your inspector is licensed and/or a CPI or CMI® before you hire him or her. This will ensure that you are hiring only an individual who has received the best training to become a home inspector.

Question 4

How much does a home inspection cost?

Accepted Answer

There are many things to consider to be able to determine the fee. Location, size and amenities are the main questions. If ancillary services are added, (sewer inspection? Chimney? Mold? Pool? ADU?)   Clients can choose whatever they want with us. We discount all the add-on fees to help Clients get all the info they need to make the right decision.

Question 5

How long does a home inspection take?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the home's age, size, and location, as well as the home inspector's own work protocols and ethic, your home inspection may take up to three hours. Adding square footage, outbuildings, and/or ancillary services (such as mold or radon testing) will increase that time. It may be necessary for your inspector to bring in a helper for a very large property.

Question 6

When should I schedule a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

A home inspection is usually scheduled after an offer has been made and accepted, but before the closing date. That way, the inspector can rule out any major defects that could be dangerous or costly. In rare cases—due to timing or contractual issues—the inspection can be scheduled after the closing date. If this is the case, the home buyer should schedule the inspection for the earliest possible date after closing.

Question 7

Should I be present for the inspection?

Accepted Answer

You should attend the inspection, and you should reconsider hiring an inspector who doesn't allow this. You can learn a lot by following an inspector through the home. You will certainly gain a better understanding of the home's condition, which will give you insight into its potential sale points and defects. Additionally, you will likely learn information about the home's maintenance, systems and components that may provide useful for the transaction.

Question 8

Can my house fail the inspection?

Accepted Answer

Our reports do not give a passing or failing grade on the home. We give factual information in an easy to understand way so you can make informed decisions regarding your purchase. No house is perfect and you should expect to find items that need repair/replacement or further investigation.

Question 9

What doesn't the home inspection cover?

Accepted Answer

Home inspections typically exclude invasive procedures like drilling holes or opening walls, and might not include specialized examinations such as pests, asbestos, or environmental hazards. Additionally, they don't guarantee the detection of concealed issues or predict future problems, focusing primarily on visible and accessible components of the property at the time of inspection.

First Shield Home Inspections

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