What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual assessment of a property, including major mechanical and electrical systems performed by a trained professional in accordance with the State of Illinois requirements. Some of the items typically inspected are: plumbing, electrical, appliances, grading, roofing, siding, windows and doors, HVAC systems, the foundation and much more. A written report of the current condition of the property is emailed to the client the same day as the inspection. The report includes digital pictures of significant findings.
What is a commercial inspection?
A commercial inspection is a visual assessment of a property to help determine current condition and safety. We work with each client to determine the scope needed. Some of the items typically inspected are: plumbing, electrical, grading, roofing, siding, windows and doors, landscaping, the parking lot, HVAC systems, the foundation and much more. Our inspections are performed as a property condition assessment. A written report detailing the current condition of the property is emailed to the client within 48 hours of completion. The report includes digital pictures of significant findings.
Why do I need an inspection?
A home or commercial inspection provides you with an unbiased, objective written assessment of the property you are about to sell or purchase, including safety concerns. This puts you in the best position to make a decision regarding your investment. If you’re a seller, a pre-listing inspection gives you a blueprint to maintenance items you might want to repair prior to sale. Showing perspective buyers the inspection report, and what items were fixed, gives them added confidence in the quality and care you’ve taken in your home. Home buyers use a home inspection to gather additional information about the property. Understanding the condition of a property can provide peace of mind for both buyers and sellers.
Why can’t I do it myself?
Even the most experienced building owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional building inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of building construction, proper installation, maintenance and building safety. He or she knows how the building’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the building they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of building inspection.
How much does a building inspection cost?
The cost of a building inspection depends on a variety of factors, including: square footage, time required, age of the building, number of heating and air conditioning units and location. Commercial properties sometimes undergo a bidding process depending on the time-frame available and can have multiple options in the bid. For pricing information on the building inspection that you are interested in, please call me.
How long will the inspection take?
A home inspection generally takes between 2 ½ and 3 hours onsite for an average size home. Larger and more complicated homes may take longer. The client is encouraged to attend the inspection and walk with the inspector to view all significant findings. A commercial inspection may involve a few hours or two or three days of inspection work depending on the size and scope of the inspection. The best way to determine the duration of an inspection is to call Greg Owens, your building inspection professional to discuss your specific needs.
Can a building fail an inspection?
No. A professional building inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A building inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need repair or replacement.
When should I schedule the inspection?
If you’re a buyer, you should schedule an inspection as soon as you have a signed contract in place and before closing. If you are selling a property, consider a pre-listing inspection before putting the building on the market. This will give you time to consider making any necessary repairs to boost buyer confidence and help your building rise above the nearby competition.
What kind of experience does my inspector have?
Greg Owens has gone through comprehensive training prior to starting his business in 1991 and is required to complete state approved continuing education annually. He has also performed over 19,000 building inspections over the years.
Do I have to be at the inspection?
While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the building and how to maintain it.
