FAQ
ANSWERS TO ALL OF THE COMMON QUESTIONS
Why should I get a home inspection before buying a house?
A home inspection is a great way to determine the overall condition of a home before finalizing the purchase. The home inspector will systematically inspect various components of the home (including crawlspaces and attics) and provide a report which is easy to follow and understand. This report will identify safety conditions and components which need repair or replacement and may also identify recommended upgrades to keep your home running smoothly after the purchase.
What is the cost of a home inspection?
Pricing of a home inspection varies based on square footage, foundation types, add-on services, and other factors. Call or text to discuss your specific needs. (706) 350-8027
What is inspected during a home inspection?
Canvas Home Inspections follows the InterNACHI Standards of Practice.
We Inspect the Following:
- Home Site – Driveways, Walkways, Vegetation, Grading and Drainage at Foundation, Fencing, Sprinklers, Boat Docks, and Retaining Walls.
- Roof – Roof Coverings, Underlayment, Flashings, Eaves, Soffits, Fascia, Drainage Systems, and Chimneys.
- Attic – Insulation, and Ventilation- Roof Structure, Ceiling Structure, Insulation, Attic Ventilation, and Exhaust Systems.
- Foundations – Slabs, Crawlspaces, Basements, and Floor Structures.
- Exterior – Siding, Flashing, Trim, Doors, Windows, Decks, and Patios.
- Garage – Doors, Safety Sensors, Springs, and Tracks.
- HVAC – Heating, Cooling, Distribution Systems, Filters, Vents, Flues, Chimneys, Fireplaces.
- Electrical – Service Entrance Conductors, Electrical Panels, Branch Wiring, Lighting, Outlets, Fixtures, and Smoke Detectors.
- Plumbing – Main Shut-Off, Visible Supply/Distribution Pipes, Fixtures, Visible Drain Waste, and Vent Components, Water Heater, Fuel Storage, and Distribution Systems.
- Interior – Doors, Windows, Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Stairways, Countertops, Cabinets.
- Appliances – Refrigerator, Ovens, Stoves, Microwaves, Dishwashers, Disposals.
How long does a home inspection take?
Each home will have individual needs as it relates to time to inspect. Home size, age, foundation type, and general condition all relate to how much time will be needed to complete a thorough inspection. The average home inspection will take between 3-5 hours. I will dedicate as much time as needed.
How long before I receive an inspection report?
We strive to deliver reports electronically same day but no later than 24 hours after the inspection is completed.
Why should I get a Pre-Listing home inspection?
A pre-listing home inspection will provide a detailed report of the overall condition of your home which could save time and frustration at the closing table. During a pre-listing inspection, an inspector often uncovers maintenance issues which, when given time, the homeowner may be able to repair themselves. When major issues are uncovered the homeowner will have ample time for repairs and ample time to find the right contractor at the right price to complete repairs. Improving concerns found in a pre-listing inspection could make your listing stand out to prospective buyers.
What are the common Issues found during a home inspection?
- Site – Overgrown vegetation against home or roof and poor drainage.
- Roof – Damaged shingles, improper flashing, and downspouts draining near the foundation.
- Exterior – Localized rot to exterior surfaces due to a lack of maintenance and minor brick cracking.
- Interior – Windows which do not open, doors that do not latch, and minor drywall cracks.
- Electrical – Ungrounded outlets, GFCI devices that do not respond to testing, unlabeled electrical panels.
- Plumbing – Trap connection leaks below sinks and toilets which are not secure to the floor (do not overtighten flange bolts!)
- HVAC – Dirty filters and evaporator coils.
- Attics – Uninsulated access doors, compressed or missing insulation.
- Foundations – Excessive moisture in crawlspaces.
What should a seller do during a home inspection?
- Clean The House- buyers often attend the inspection, good impressions go a long way.
- Leave Utilities Connected- avoid delays by keeping electricity, water, and gas services connected. If the home is vacant, plan on having valves and breakers on before the inspector arrives.
- Provide Access to Components- inspectors will need access to water heaters, HVAC equipment, garages, crawlspaces, attics, electrical panels/outlets, and plumbing.
- Secure Pets- We love our fur friends, keep them safe by securing them to avoid unsupervised neighborhood strolls or unintended access to areas such as crawlspaces, attics, etc.
- Coordinate Your Presence- Buyers often attend the inspection. It is common for sellers to leave during the inspection so buyers can openly communicate and evaluate the property with the inspector and agent.
What should a buyer do during the inspection?
- Talk with the inspector about any previously observed concerns so they can be addressed.
- If you attend the inspection, interact with the inspector. Learning about electrical, water, and gas shut-offs and the location of major components will provide for a smooth move-in. This is also an ideal time to see any problems first hand.
- For safety reasons, avoid following the inspector onto roofs, into attics, or confined spaces such as the crawlspace.
What to do after a home inspection?
- Read the entire report.
- It is important to be reasonable when requesting repairs after a home inspection. Sellers are under no obligation to repair all items.
- It is generally acceptable to request sellers to repair or replace items that impact safety, liveability, or functionality of a component or items which will cause deterioration if left unrepaired (roof leaks/plumbing leaks, etc.)
- The report should be reviewed with the help of your real estate agent who can guide you through fair negotiations with all parties.