Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I get a home inspection?
A home inspection is a crucial step in the investment of buying or selling a home, offering invaluable insights into the property's condition and potential issues. You will gain the knowledge to give you a peace of mind to your concerns.
What is an inspector looking for?
Inspectors in Texas have a requirement to report using what is called the Standards of Practice. We are looking for potential issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye. This includes safety hazards, structural defects, water penetrations, electrical and plumbing issues and more.
Can I attend the home inspection?
Inspectors encourage clients to be present during the inspection. To be clear it's not necessary to be there at all, however you may have a better understanding of the inspection where we can address any concerns hands on and face-to-face.
Why can't I or someone who is handy inspect my home?
While you can take this route it is highly recommended you hire a professional, even if it isn't Artero Property Inspections. Rather than hiring a professional plumber, electrician, roofer, HVAC tech, and so on, you hire an inspector to find issues that need correcting. If issues need additional diagnoses we will recommend an expert to further evaluate and/or correct the issue.
When should I schedule a home inspection?
It's important to schedule an inspection BEFORE you finalize and sign to purchase your home. An inspection is part of your due diligence to protect one of your largest investments by informing you about the condition of the property before making a purchase decision.
How long does a home inspection take?
On average a home inspection will take 3-4 hours. Inspectors want to leave no stone unturned. With that in mind, there are many variables from home to home, so an inspection may take longer.
How soon will I receive the inspection report?
The inspection report is being written during the inspection, and will be close to finish once the inspection is done. You will receive the report usually by the end of the day after it has been reviewed.
What should I look for in a home inspector?
In the state of Texas professional inspectors are licensed through the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Find public records on the TREC website:
License Holder Search. You will find the qualifications that are identified by the state about your inspector. Know what services you may need for your home, and see if your inspector is trained, qualified, and licensed. For example if you have a septic system or private well you want inspected then reference the license holder search to see if your inspector is qualified to perform such an inspection.
What should I do if the inspection reveals issues with the property?
You will learn about the potential outcomes of the defects, and you can come to a conclusion about how you may want to proceed. If significant issues are discovered, buyers may request repairs or price adjustments. Sellers can address issues upfront to prevent deal delays or price reductions.
My home is brand new, do I still need an inspection?
It can be a surprise to some to learn that it's not uncommon for there to be potential issues in almost all homes, new or old. A new home is still under warranty with the builder, and it's best to address any defects to have them corrected before you move in. Even if the home is a couple of years old, and still under warranty it is best to address these potential problems early on. The longer issues go unsolved, the more cost it will be to resolve.
What happens after the home inspection?
If you are present for the end of an inspection you will be able to talk with the inspector, and get an overview of the property and any findings. Once all your concerns have been addressed, and the report has been finalized you will receive the inspection report through your email. You will have learned about the property, and be able to make an informed decision on your next step. Any further questions after all this are always welcomed to be clarified.
Are there any limitations to what a home inspection can uncover?
There are many variables to consider, however, an inspection is not designed to address every single possible issue there can be with a home. With that in mind, a professional inspection does cover the majority of the systems that makes up a home, and will identify potential issues or concerns.
How To Prepare A House For An Inspection
Preparing your home for a home inspection is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and thorough evaluation of your property. Whether it's your own home, a rental property, or one you're in the process of purchasing, there are a few key steps you can take to help the inspection process go smoothly.
First, make sure all areas of the home are easily accessible, including attic and crawl spaces, electrical panels, and water heaters. Clearing clutter and removing obstacles will allow the inspector to perform a comprehensive examination of your property.
Additionally, ensure that all utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas are turned on and accessible for testing.
If the home is still furnished, consider decluttering and organizing rooms to make them more accessible for inspection. While it's not necessary to deep clean every corner of your home, maintaining a clean and tidy appearance can help create a positive impression and facilitate a more efficient inspection process.
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Document repairs and maintenance activities performed on the property, or ask the current owners. Repairs of the roof, HVAC servicing, electrical or plumbing updates, and remodeling updates can demonstrate that the property has been maintained and might provide insight on the condition of the home.
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By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your home inspection proceeds smoothly and that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly.
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Quick List:
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Removing obstacles from access to utilities
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Turn on all utilities
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Organizing furnishing to clear pathways; away from walls, windows and outlets
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Determine of any ongoing repairs and past repairs