Home Inspections Are Worth The Expense
If Only For The Peace Of Mind
Okay, So How Much Does It Cost?
As you call around for quotes, you will hear a variety of
prices. Some low, and some quite high. But remember, if the fee
seems high, just compare the price of the home to the inspection fee and you
will see what a great bargain a home inspection really is.
You know homes are not cheap. Many homes cost well
into the six figure range, and some are worth even more. Now
consider that the cost of an inspection is a tiny fraction of
the cost of the home. For example; The average inspection fee can
range between $300.00 to $500.00 Now, if a home is selling
for $300,000 and the inspection fee is $300.00, that is only .1% of
the cost of the home! Even if an inspector charged $3000.00 to
inspect this home, that is still only 1% of the cost of the
home. Just to compare, a Realtor may earn 3% to 6%, or $9000 to
$18,000 dollars.
Now, keep in mind that a thorough home inspection can
reveal defects that are costly to repair, or can reveal defects that are dangerous
or deadly. If you consider the risks of a cheap,
fast inspection, you may understand why the expense of a
good inspection is worth it.
The cost of an inspection will vary from inspector to
inspector. Each inspector uses different methods to determine their
fee. In order to give you an accurate quote, I will need a few
details about the home. Call me at 631-243-6642 or 516-942-0009 for a
quote.
As You Call Other Inspectors For
Quotes
Be Sure To Ask The Following Questions
Once you have the answers to these questions,
you'll have an idea about what they're charging, and what their
inspection may be worth.
1. Are They A Member of A Trade Association?
Trade associations are very helpful by providing
their members with advice, education and support.
As well a having an NY. State License
16000005054 I am a full member of ASHI
& NAHI These trade organizations are among
the largest and most respected in the country, and are among the toughest to
join. They provide tremendous support to their members, and members must
meet specific conditions every year to remain in good standing. This
translates into a better inspection for you.
2. How Long Do They Take On An
Inspection?
A good inspection takes time. If an inspector
says his inspection takes an hour, that's not an inspection, that's just
looking around.
I take as long as necessary to perform a thorough
inspection. Typically that can take 2 to 3 hours or longer if
it's a big, or older home. Some big homes with several heating and
air systems or water heaters, two or more electrical panels, a well, private
septic system and a crawl space, can take longer. Generally, the
longer the inspection, the better it is. There should be no
time limits set by anyone.
3. How Long Do They Take To Write The
Report?
Do they deliver on-site reports? While this
may seem like a good thing, it really is not. Inspectors that use quick
and easy to fill out "checklist" reports, or handwritten reports are
taking a big risk. Check list reports are limited, and there is too much
information that can be accidentally omitted if a report is written
quickly.
I write customized
reports that not only details any major problems with the home,
but also includes information about less serious concerns, as well
as information that will help you understand the home's various
systems. It's not unusual for one report to be 20 or 30 pages long, and
in some cases can be much longer. Because they are detailed, they
typically take 3 or 4 hours to complete, and sometimes much
longer. Despite their length, they are designed to be very easy to read
and understand.
4. Can They Provide Digital Photos?
More and more home inspectors are providing digital
pictures with their reports, but many still do not. Without pictures, it
can be difficult to understand a complex issue, especially if you cannot make
it to the inspection.
5. How Extensive Is Their Inspection?
Ask your potential inspector what they check during
their inspection. Keep in mind that a quick inspection is not an
extensive inspection.
My inspection of a typical single family residence
includes the visible and accessible portions of:
The foundation, roof shingles, roof flashing,
stem walls, grade beams, ceiling and floor joists, gutters, attic, roof
structure, ventilation levels, insulation levels, retaining walls, drainage
swales, exterior grounds, yard drainage, decks, grade, furnaces, flues, dryer
vents, Central air conditioners, condensate drain pipes, fences, gates,
electrical panels, sub-panels, interiors doors, outlets and switches,
visible wiring, water supply materials, water heaters, gas supply systems,
wall furnaces, interior walls and ceiling finishes, sink, toilets, exterior
doors, floors, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, windows, sliding doors,
screens, visible drains, plumbing vents, garages, garage door openers, patios,
porches, steps, stairs, crawl spaces, brick and mortar work, foundation slabs,
siding, electrical service lines, sidewalks, driveways, and much
more.
6. Are They Available Seven Days A Week?
Many inspectors only work 5 days a week, and have a
9 to 5 schedule.
I work seven days a week, and inspect homes anytime
it's daytime. I understand that your work schedule may make it easier to
have your inspection done on the weekend. For your convenience, I am
available Saturday and Sunday as well.
7. Are They Fully Insured?
General liability is required in New York, but Errors and
Omissions insurance is optional. A part time inspector may not be able
to afford E & O insurance.
Homespec Home Inspections is insured beyond the
required minimums.
Now Ask For A
Quote....
When You Are Ready For My Quote
Call
631-243-6642
516-942-0009
You can 
E-mail
me just send me some basic
information about the home, and I will be happy to send you a quote by
email.
We We answer are own phones! 8am-9pm
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