A home inspection is a
thorough examination of the home. It is very similar
to getting a physical examination. Every room in the
house is examined. The mechanical systems are
examined, and most of the appliances are operated.
All accessible areas of the home, such as the crawl
spaces, the attic and roof are also inspected. They
are checked for structural concerns, as well as for
signs that the house is functioning properly. The
heater will be run and checked. The air conditioner
will be run and checked in warm weather. The plumbing
fixtures are checked. The main electrical box is
examined and the accessible receptacles and switches
checked. During our home inspection, ten pages of
items are checked, observed, or operated. Literally
hundreds of observations and evaluations are made
about the house. Some of these notes will give you a
record of what materials are present, some will grade
the operation of systems, and some will let you plan
on what will need replacing.
A thorough home
inspection on the average home will take 2 1/2 to 3
hours. An average home would be three to four
bedrooms, and 2,000 to 2,500 square feet. If the home
is newer, it sometimes takes less time, if it is
older, (over sixty years old), it will definitely
take longer. During the home inspection you will
learn where all the shut offs are for the major
systems such as plumbing, electrical, and heating.
You will also get operating tips on various systems
that can save you money and possibly save your life.
It is a great opportunity to spend about three hours
looking in every corner of the home. You won't be
hurried or feel pressured by the inspector. When
preparing for your home inspection it's a good idea
to write down all your questions about the home
before the inspection, so the inspector can answer
them during the inspection. It is also a good idea to
take notes. Many buyers use this opportunity to take
pictures of each room, to measure the rooms, and to
plan their floor plans.
After an inspection
with Blue Bell Consulting, Inc., your ten page report
will be faxed or emailed the next day. A report in PDF format
can also be available immediately when the inspection is
finished. Also included is a
300 page manual that tells you how the home should
work. It covers in great detail everything you will
find in a home. You will have a seasonal check list
that tells you how to maintain your home. Also
included is a list telling you about how long items
in the house last and approximately how much they
cost to replace. You will also have Blue Bell
Consulting, Inc as a resourse to call in the future
if you are having work done. Call us, fax us, or
e-mail us before future home projects, and we will be
glad to advise you on your project. In summary,
getting a home inspection is a great start towards
peace of mind with your new home.