Time for
Inspections
Once you have a contract, you need to get inspections done in a timely
matter. It's recommended to have a termite, property and roof inspection
at a minimum. Condition, location, type, personal knowledge and other
factors should dictate to you what other inspections to order. Inspections
can save you money and prevent you from making a poor investment.
Your real estate agent can help arrange the different inspections you
want.
Types of
Inspections
Termite, roof, property, pool, spa, chimney, geological, wells, septic,
radon, lead, asbestos, structural engineering are a number that could be
recommended.
Termite Vs.
Property Inspections
These distinct inspections require different skills. The industries are
quite dissimilar. For example, termite inspectors estimate the cost to
cure Section I and II type work and usually solicit contracts for the
corrective work. Property inspection firms don't perform corrective work.
The purposes of termite reports and property inspection reports are not
compatible and should not be combined.
Termite
Inspection
Most lenders require a termite clearance and most buyers want to know the
house they purchase is going to be free from infestation. A termite report
covers two areas of concern called "sections". Section I is concerned with
actual termite or beetle infestation and dry-rot, caused by moisture.
Examples: Termites in joists and studs. Dry rot (spongy floor) around the
base of a toilet. Section II concerns itself with preventive measures that
could lead to Section I type condition. Examples: Dirt or wood in contact
with wooden structures of the house, allowing termites access. A slow
plumbing leak that could lead to dry-rot.
Property
Inspection
Along with termite inspections, property inspections are commonly ordered.
Property inspections differ from termite inspections in that they concern
themselves with the mechanical and structural health of a property. The
inspection includes a review of all major components from the foundation
to the roof, including electrical, plumbing and heating systems. Even if
the house looks in good condition, the purpose of a property inspection
report is to evaluate the hidden components most home buyers cannot
properly judge. Property inspectors typically are trained or have years of
experience in the construction related industries. They know what looks
right or wrong - what looks code complying - what looks dangerous. Having
a property inspection is like taking a car to a mechanic to check before
you buy. A house investment is much larger making the inspection more
prudent.
Value of
Being at Inspections
This is your opportunity to "check under the hood" of your new home.
Schedule inspections for the same day to utilize your time off. Now is the
best time to find where and how to turn off the "mains" to any gas, water
and electrical supply to the house in case of an emergency. The inspector
can answer questions on the items that are addressed in the report so you
will better understand it.
