How Important Are Home Inspections?

If you are buying a home, it is crucial that you get a whole home inspection. Generally, the inspection period is negotiated when purchasing a home and can range from 5 to 15 days. This means that you have 5-15 days to find an inspector, get the home inspected and send the inspection report, along with any requested repairs or replacements, to the seller and their agent. Home inspections are extremely important for many reasons, but for the most part an inspection will point out major defects that could cost the new homeowner large amounts of money. Keep in mind, there is a difference between “routine maintenance items” and “major defects.” Throughout my career as a Realtor in Dayton, Ohio, I have never seen a “perfect home” or a spotless home inspection report.

What Does A Home Inspection Cover?

A whole home inspection in Dayton Ohio will generally cover the following items:

• Roof Inspection
• Termite Inspections
• Foundation Inspection
• Electrical Inspection
• Plumbing Inspection
• HVAC Inspection
• Water Heater Inspection
• Major Appliances (Stove, Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Washer & Dryer)

It is important to note that in the state of Ohio, a home inspector does not have to be licensed. Generally, home inspectors get “Certified” by completing specific requirements set forth by an accredited trade school like ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors). Think about it, it would be nearly impossible for a home inspector to be a licensed electrician, a licensed plumber, a licensed HVAC contractor, and a licensed structural engineer.

Do I Need A Specialized Home Inspection?

There are certain times when a specialized home inspection is needed. For instance, if the home you are buying has a fireplace that you plan on using, you may want to hire a professional chimney inspector (chimney sweep). A chimney inspector will check the liner, check for leaks, check the structural stability and also clean the fireplace to ensure safe burning. The other times you may want to hire a specialized inspector is if the general home inspection shows a major problem with a component that requires the assistance of a state licensed professional (plumber, electrician, HVAC technician or structural engineer).

My Home Inspector Noted Termite Damage

If your home inspector happens to find signs of termites, there is no need to panic. Unfortunately in the state of Ohio, termites, signs of termites and termite damage is fairly common. There are a few different ways an inspector will note termites on the home inspection report

1. The home has active termite activity
2. The home has previously been treated for termites
3. The home shows no signs of termites or termite damage

Keep in mind, if you are active or former U.S. military and using a V.A. Home loan to purchase the home, it is mandatory that you get a termite inspection and the homeowner is responsible for covering the cost. Depending on the activity and severity of the termites and termite damage, the cost to treat for termites can run anywhere from $200 – $2,000.

How Much Does A Home Inspection Cost?

The cost of a whole house inspection will vary depending on the size of the home, which will be determined by actual square footage (Sq Ft). It’s important to note, termite, radon and chimney inspections will be an addition charge. We recommend always getting a whole house inspection before buying a home. $325.00 – $650.00 is a minimal price to pay for an inspection on what may be the largest purchase of your life. A thorough home inspection will also give you peace of mind knowing that you are making a sound investment and that you and your family will be safe living in your new home.

Home Inspection Checklist

Use our home inspection checklist to ensure that you are looking at all parts of the home. Check off those items that are in good condition and jot down notes about those that are not. (Note that this list describes an ideal house, but in our experience no house is perfect – not even newly constructed homes!)

Please Note: This checklist should not be relied upon as a home inspection report, nor should it be considered a substitute for a home inspection. This list is representative, but NOT exhaustive. If you require a whole house inspection, contact one of the home inspectors listed at the bottom of this page. For your convenience, we have placed a link to our downloadable “Home Inspection Checklist” that you can print out and use to take notes while checking out potential homes.

>>>>> Downloadable Home Inspection Checklist <<<<<

LIST OF HOME INSPECTORS IN DAYTON OHIO