FAQ
When should I contact the home inspector?
Once you commit to purchase. Consult with your attorney and ask about a clause that should be entered into the contract or purchase agreement making purchase obligation subject to a professional home inspection. Contact New York Home Inspections once the contract or purchase agreement has been signed.
What’s the value of getting a home inspection?
As a prospective home buyer, you want to be informed as much as possible about a financial decision that will affect you and your family. New York Home Inspections will provide you with a thorough understanding of the condition of the home so you can make a confident decision.
If you plan to sell your home, an inspection may reveal problems that you can repair before they dissuade a potential buyer.
A house inspection even benefits an owner who wants a professional opinion on the condition of their home. Our inspection may uncover problems, giving you the chance to fix them before they turn into an expensive and extended project.
What is the Pre-Inspection Agreement?
A Pre-Inspection Agreement is a document that includes the services included in a home inspection and the cost of the home inspection. The Pre-Inspection Agreement must be signed by the inspector and client prior to the start of the inspection. Every home inspector licensed by New York State is required to provide their client with a Pre-Inspection Agreement.
What if the inspection reveals problems?
Keep in mind, not even a new home is perfect. If a concern is identified, compare the cost of repair against your budget. In addition, purchase terms may be adjusted if a major problem is identified, allowing for credit against the purchase price of the home. Whether you are searching for a handyman special or a move in condition home, the home inspection report will be instrumental in helping with your decision.
I have uncovered minor problems since I moved into my new home a couple months ago. Why were these missed during my home inspection?
Certain problems may only be obvious when living in a home. For instance, a shower stall that leaks while in full use may not leak when the faucet is merely turned on and off during an inspection. Similarly, a roof may only leak under certain weather conditions, not present during the inspection.
My home inspection report indicates I need minor roof repairs. Why would a roofing contractor recommend replacement of the entire roof?
The advice you receive from a contractor will sometimes differ from a home inspector. This is a source of dissatisfaction with home inspections. It should come as no surprise that a roofer may say a whole roof should replaced, when in our professional opinion a few minor repairs will allow it to last a few more years.
On the other hand, be aware of the “Last Man In” theory. Simply stated, a contractor may decline to perform repairs on an existing roof because he could potentially be held liable for pre-existing problems regardless if it is associated with his repair. Unsurprisingly, a contractor may forgo a small roof repair for a more profitable and lower-risk complete roof installation.
Can properties fail an inspection?
Unlike municipal inspections or appraisals, we do not conduct a pass or fail inspection. Our goal is to describe a home’s condition allowing you to make an informed decision about an important financial investment.
Do I hire the inspector or will my real estate agent?
By virtue of their experience with many home buyers, real estate professionals usually know which inspection companies are experienced and in a position to protect your interest. The selection of a home inspector should be a mutual decision between the home buyer and the real estate professional. We recommend consulting with your attorney.
How much will an inspection cost?
It is our goal to make our service affordable to all. Our inspection costs are based on the size of a prospective property. We do not charge a large flat fee regardless of size. After all, you should not have to pay the same fee as someone purchasing a larger property.
When will I receive the inspection report?
Our professional report includes thorough detail and is usually submitted to the client within 72 hours of the inspection.