Benson, NC
919-894-8300 |
Fayetteville, NC
910-426-2882 |
Raleigh, NC
919-577-9988 |
Prepared by NCLHIA
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective, visual examination of a home’s
structure, systems and mechanical systems. Think of it like having a personal
physical check-up that includes blood pressure, reflexes, temperature, etc.,
only on the home.(see below)
What does an inspection include?
The home inspector is required to observe readily visible and
accessible installed systems which include: structural components, exterior,
roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, central air conditioning, interiors,
built-in kitchen appliances, insulation and ventilation. The home inspector
shall operate the mechanical systems using normal operating controls except when
conditions or other circumstances may cause equipment damage. The minimum
standards for home inspections in North Carolina are established by the NC
Licensed Home Inspector Board and can be reviewed at NCHILB.com.
What will it cost?
See our pricing guide.
Can I do a home inspection myself?
Of course you can inspect the home yourself. However, most
homeowners lack the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector.
Professional home inspectors are familiar with the many elements of home
construction, their proper installation and maintenance and will document their
findings to you in writing.
Are home inspectors required to be
licensed?
Yes, in North Carolina, all home inspections performed for a fee
are required to be done by a NC Licensed Home Inspector. The regulatory body
governing home inspectors in North Carolina is the NC Home Inspector Licensure
Board. Their home page is nchilb.com.
What if the inspection reveals problems with the
house?
No house is perfect. Just because the house may have some problems
doesn’t mean it isn’t a good investment. The inspection will help you understand
the condition of the house. It is up to you and your contract with the seller to
determine which problems you can live with, if you may be able to get repairs
done before closing, or to negotiate with the seller on the price of the
home.
Can a house fail inspection?
No, a house can not fail since the inspection is an objective,
visual examination of a home’s structure, systems and mechanical systems. A home
inspection is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local building code
compliance. A home inspection in this context can not pass or fail, it is simply
reporting the condition of the home from a visual examination of the structure
and systems at that point in time.
Should I be present at the home inspection?
It isn’t required for you to be present at the inspection; however,
being at the inspection will help you learn about your new home. The inspector
can give you tips on maintenance and upkeep. Plus it’s a good time for you to
ask questions.
Is a contract required for a home
inspection?
Yes, all licensed home inspectors in North Carolina are required to
provide a written contract that shall describe the services performed, standards
of practice, limitations and the cost of the services. This contract is required
to be signed before the home inspection is performed.
When should I call for a home inspection?
Normally, it’s a good idea to call in an inspector after you have made an offer
to purchase the property and before closing. Many "offer to purchase" contracts
include an "inspection clause" in the contract, making your purchase contingent
upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This inspection clause
often specifies the timeframe when the inspection must be completed.
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