A certified home inspector will take a close look at all functional aspects of the house to determine its safety as a dwelling. The home inspector will test the operational status of all major systems – plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling – and check the roof, the foundation, and the home’s exterior. The inspector's job is not to fix or warn you about potential issues but to take note of the house’s current condition at that point in time and any safety or repair concerns.

So, why can't you just hire a plumber, electrician, and foundation company to look at the house? That’s an option, but a home inspector is trained and certified to examine all systems at once without the extra cost or time. Plus, the home inspector has no vested interest in getting hired for possible future repairs, so you can trust their objective opinions.

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

It is important to note that there may be some exceptions. If certain areas are inaccessible (locked door, tenant’s belongings in the way) or unsafe conditions (severely steep roofs, poor structural integrity), the inspector will explain the situation and note that they could not assess that specific area or system.

Buying a home is a huge financial decision, and a home inspection can help you feel more at ease about your choice. The inspector you hire will uncover defects or deficits in the home that you could eventually have to pay to repair or upgrade, so it gives you a clear picture of what’s in store before you commit to the purchase.

Sometimes buyers use the issues the inspector uncovers as negotiating points with the seller; conversely, sellers use an inspection to identify issues they can repair before putting the home on the market.

A home inspector doesn’t inspect the house to sway anyone’s decision or encourage someone to buy or look elsewhere. Instead, a home inspector is an independent third party who has one job: to identify issues with the home.

Whether you are a buyer or a seller, your home inspector will examine all the same components of the house and its systems.

As a general rule, a home inspection takes between 2 and 3 hours. However, the size of the home and the extent of its issues can change the timeframe significantly.

Most home inspectors write down their findings as they’re examining the home; then, within a few days, they’ll provide the person who ordered the inspection with a detailed report.

Yet, 9YARD building inspection services utilize cutting-edge technology and software to provide the report within the same day.

If you see something that looks “off” during your home inspection, speak up. A good home inspector will welcome your questions and be happy to answer them. Your inspector will check all the home’s important components (other than those that require a specialty inspection), and you’re welcome to join him or her along the way.

Although the homebuyer doesn't need to be present during the home inspection, it is highly recommended. Many homebuyers find it to be a valuable and worthwhile experience. Being present during the inspection allows the homebuyer to observe the inspector’s findings and ask questions as they arise. Interacting with the inspector during the inspection can provide homebuyers with invaluable information to help them make informed decisions about their investment.

A professional home inspection is an examination and objective assessment of the current condition of a house. A home inspector 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. A home inspection is not an appraisal and will not determine the home's market value. It is also not a municipal inspection and does not verify local code compliance.