Q: What
are the different types of inspections?
A: Generally, there are 6 types of
inspections that a buyer can request. The most common is the general home
inspection. This is a non-invasive examination of the condition of the
home. Inspectors will look at the roof, basement, heating and cooling systems,
water heater, plumbing, electrical, and structure of the home. This inspection
may take anywhere from 3-5 hours depending on the size of the home. They will
provide the buyers agent with a written copy of their findings. Termite
and gas line inspections can be done at the same time, and possible by
the same company that does the general home inspection. These inspections
usually take less than an hour. For the termite inspection, the inspector will
look for evidence of wood destroying insects such as wood damage, mud tubes,
discarded wings, termite exit holes and droppings. For the gas line inspection,
the inspector will use an “electronic sniffer” to check all gas lines from the
gas meter/propane tank to the appliance connections. As with the general home
inspection, the inspector(s) will provide a written copy of their findings to
the buyers agent. The radon test is an extended test which
usually takes 48-72 hours to complete. The monitoring unit is typically placed
in the lowest level of “living space” and/or basement. If radon levels are high
(4 PCi/L or greater), you will most likely be asked to mitigated. If applicable,
well and septic inspections may be requested. Most county health
departments recommend that a septic tank be pumped at least once every 3 years.
If it has not been done on your system, be prepared for the buyers to request
it. It is recommended that households with a well have their system “shocked”
at least once annually to kill bacteria. If you have not done this within the
past year, I recommend you do so. Water for a well test is typically drawn from
the Kitchen sink. Mold tests are less common, but can be
requested if the general home inspector notices mold in the home. A specialist
may be called in at the buyers expense. Lead-based paint inspections
determine the levels of lead-based paint that are present. The inspector may
use a portable paint analyzer to measure if, and how much, lead is present on
many surfaces. It is also less invasive and destructive than taking paint chips
to a lab.
Q: What
is the difference between a home inspection and appraisal?
A: The home inspector will be looking at the
condition and structure of the home. A home inspection is optional (but usually
suggested) whereas an appraisal is required by the mortgage lender. The
appraiser works for the bank and will be looking at the value of the home.
Their evaluation of a property’s value is based on the condition of the home,
features, and similar home sales in the area.
DeLena
Ciamacco’s Credentials
“Top 100
Realtors In The World For Over 20 Years”*
“#1 In The State Of Ohio For Over 18 Years”
“#1 In Central Ohio 1994-2015 (ytd)”*
“#1 Closed Dollar Volume 1994-2015 (ytd)”*
*Among all Re/Max Team Leaders Worldwide
“#1 In The State Of Ohio For Over 18 Years”
“#1 In Central Ohio 1994-2015 (ytd)”*
“#1 Closed Dollar Volume 1994-2015 (ytd)”*
*Among all Re/Max Team Leaders Worldwide
DeLena
Ciamacco is Member Of:
Columbus Board of Realtors National Association of Realtors
Ohio Association of Realtors Builder Industry Association (BIA)
Ohio Association of Realtors Builder Industry Association (BIA)
“I proudly specialize in Residential,
Commercial, Land, and Investment Real Estate Sales. I service Franklin and all
surrounding counties. I am available for any and all of your Real Estate
needs!”
(614) 882-6725 •
www.delena.com • delena@delena.com
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