North Sound Home Inspections

Additional Tips

TIP 3: Have your seller do any necessary repairs or have your seller hire someone qualified to do those repairs. NOTE: This should take place before the buyer's inspection.
TIP 4: If the house is vacant, verify that all of the utilities are turned on. This includes water, electricity and gas.
TIP 5: Verify that any lockbox required for entry to the home is programmed to open at the time of the inspection.
TIP 6: If the house is occupied, communicate to your seller that the inspector will need unobstructed access to the attic, crawlspace, furnace, water heater and electric service panel.
TIP 7: Do not attend the inspection. It is also preferable that your seller is not present during the inspection. Your absence can help create a more comfortable environment for the buyer, buyer's agent and inspector.
TIP 8: Prepare your seller for the fact that the buyer's inspector most likely is going to find some items that warrant attention or repair. This is normal, so your seller shouldn't take it personally.
TIP 9: If after the inspection the prospective buyer is dissatisfied with the inspection results (i.e., some unpleasant surprises are discovered by the inspector), let your seller know that it's okay. That it's typical for buyer/seller negotiations to take place after the inspection (in the form of an addendum to the original sales agreement.)

Tips on how a Buyer's agent can prepare for a successful home inspection:

TIP 1: Have you or your buyer arrange for a professional home inspection with a state certified home inspector. The inspector should have E&O insurance. Personal referrals are the best.
TIP 2: If your buyer is reluctant to have an inspection (because they don't want to spend the money), attempt to persuade them to have one (that it will be money well spent.)
TIP 3: Verify with the listing agent that any lockbox require for entry to the home is programmed to open at the time of the inspection.
TIP 4: If the house is vacant, also verify with the listing agent that all of the utilities are turned on. This includes the water, electricity and gas.
TIP 5: If the house is occupied, communicate to the listing agent that the inspector will need unobstructed access to any attic, crawlspace, furnace, water heater and electric service panel.
TIP 6: Have both you and your buyer attend the inspection. If your buyer can't or doesn't want to attend the entire inspection, encourage them to at least come at the end of the inspection. That way the inspector can discuss the inspection report with both of you, point out, if necessary, any items that might warrant attention or repair, and answer any question that you may have.
TIP 7: Before or during the inspection prepare your buyer for that fact that the house isn't going to be in perfect condition. Even brand new construction homes are rarely perfect. Let your buyer know that the inspector is most likely going to find items that warrant attention or repair. That is normal.
TIP 8: If after the inspection your buyer is dissatisfied with the inspection results (i.e., there are some unpleasant surprises discovered by the inspector), let your buyer know that it's okay. That buyer requests or negotiations can take place with the seller in the form of an addendum to the original sales agreement.

What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector's report will cover the condition of the home's heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

We follow the Washington Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, this outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report.

Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you'll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

If you are planning to sell you home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies upon location. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee will vary depending upon a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age, the possible optional services such as Pest and Dry Rot Inspection and if out buildings or pools and spas are included in the inspection.

Do not let the cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain.

When do I call a home inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Why can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.

Can a house fail a home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

Do I have to be there?
While it's not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it. You should try to meet the inspector at the end of the inspection so you can review the summary and findings. If you can't make it, we will be glad to cover the finding over the phone with you.

What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't mean you should or shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don't want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

If the house was in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You'll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will have the information for future reference. Remember, most times the Home Inspector can offer maintenance information to help keep your house in top condition.