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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a home inspection cost?
How long does a home inspection take?
Can I accompany the inspector during the inspection?
What does the inspector look at?
When should I schedule a home inspection?
How will the inspector report the results?
What if I have questions about the inspection results?
Can I obtain a home inspection after buying a house?
Contact ABI to schedule your inspection!
How much does a home inspection cost?
The cost of a home inspection varies according to the square footage, as well as the age, value, and complexity of the property. Please call us to receive an accurate quote.
How long does a home inspection take?
The actual time varies, according to the home’s size and complexity. However, an average inspection takes about 2.5 hours.
Can I accompany the inspector during the inspection?
Yes, in fact we encourage it. You’ll be able to see what the inspector sees, and ask questions as the inspection progresses. It is well worth your while to be present during the inspection.
What does the inspector look at?
A home inspector makes a visual inspection of the structure and major interior systems of the home. He or she will only view readily accessible areas. A home inspection is not intended to point out every small problem, or invisible or latent defect. For example, a chipped tile on a countertop, though unsightly, would not be noted on an inspection report. However, the inspector does evaluate the overall condition of the home and its important systems.
When should I schedule a home inspection?
Typically, a home inspector is hired after an Offer to Purchase contract is signed, and before the final purchase and sales agreement is signed.
How will the inspector report the results?
We provide a written report detailing the results of our inspection. The report will include information on the condition of the home, list any visible, apparent problems, point out areas where there is a risk of concealed damage, list where repairs need to be made, and say whether further investigation is recommended or required.
We also provide a verbal report of the results, so that you can ask questions.
What if I have questions about the inspection results?
Please call us if you have any questions about the inspection. We welcome and encourage questions because our job is to give you a much clearer picture of the condition of the home you are about to buy.
Can I obtain a home inspection after buying a house?
Homeowners often order home inspections, for a number of reasons. The most common reason is that the owner is planning to sell the house, and would like to find and address any problems before putting the house on the market.
Is a home inspection the same as a code inspection?
No, a building code inspection is a completely different type of inspection.
Can a home inspection be used to set the value of a house?
No, a home inspection is not the same as an appraisal.
Quick Tips for Homebuyers:
Before signing the Offer to Purchase contract, make sure an inspection clause is included that makes the purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. The terms to which both buyer and seller are obligated should be specified in this clause.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires professional home inspectors to be licensed. Don’t hire a home inspector who cannot or will not produce his or her state license, or whose license cannot be verified by the Board of Registration of Home Inspectors (http://www.state.ma.us/boards/hi).
