Whether you’re shopping for a previously-owned or brand new house, an inspection provides insight to the condition of the home you are buying. If you’re putting your house on the market, an inspection helps hasten the sale and can generate a higher price.

A home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the home and property

The process usually takes two to three hours, during which time the house is examined from the ground up. The inspection includes observation and, when appropriate, operation of the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and appliance systems, as well as structural components: roof, foundation, basement, exterior and interior walls, chimney, doors, and windows. When conducted by a professional, a home inspection covers about 1,000 check-points in approximately 400 items around the home. Findings should be provided to you in the form of a comprehensive report. It is vital that such a report include an objective evaluation of the condition of the home, clearly relating existing defects and indicating potential problems.

A home inspection report is not a warranty

Because a home inspection is a visual examination of the home and operating systems, it is not technically exhaustive. There is no assurance, expressed or implied, that equipment will not break down at some future date. However, such protection is available when a home inspection is complemented by a home warranty. When the services are used in conjunction with one another, a home warranty covers the items that were serviceable at the time of the inspection and subsequently fail due to normal wear and tear.

A home inspection does not detect every conceivable flaw

It is an inspection of those areas and items that can be seen. Home inspectors cannot see through foundation, floors or walls, and cannot inspect areas or items that are inaccessible. A home inspection benefits all parties involved in the real estate transaction.

This article was provided by AmeriSpec Inspection Services, Canada's leading home inspection company. For further information or to arrange an inspection with a qualified AmeriSpec home inspector, please visit www.amerispec.ca for details.