Seller's reference to the home inspection process

what

A home inspection is a visual examination of various components of a residential property.
Typically, the following areas may be included in an inspection, depending upon the client's requirement for detail:

• Structure

  foundation
  framing
  basement/crawl
  drainage

• Roof

  exterior surface
  attic

• Electrical

  panel
  lights & receptacles

• Heat Plant

  heating (furnace, heat pump, etc.)
  cooling (A/C, heat pump, etc.)

• Plumbing

  water heater
  fixtures, piping, faucets, valves, & drains (kitchen, bath, & laundry)

• Appurtenances

  appliances
  exterior/interior finishes
  windows & doors
  fireplaces

In addition, homes may be inspected for:

wood-destroying insects
radon levels
other environmental conditions

An inspection is frequently performed to objectively determine the condition of the home, usually in conjunction with an imminent ownership transaction.

In a majority of cases, a home buyer is the inspection client, as a result of stipulation in the purchase agreement. However, sellers may have occasion to order inspections to obtain an opinion of the property for pre- listing preparation as well as marketing advertising.

It is in the client's best interest to engage a professional who is

• trained and certified by an appropriate inspection organization,
  
• unaffiliated with any repair business,
  
• licensed for his/her technical expertise, and
  
• experienced in the field.
  

Many Inspectors encourage the client, as well as the client's real estate agent, to participate in the inspection. This allows for a first-hand understanding of the subsequent report.

The schedule for the buyer's inspection is generally established in the purchase agreement or contract, typically within 10-14 days after acceptance of the purchase agreement.

Before the inspection, the seller should verify proper operation and functioning of all systems and components. As a rule, Inspectors will not activate dormant systems or disassemble complex components, other than removing cover plates or entry hatches. In addition, the seller can facilitate the procedure with advance preparation in these details:

• Provide clear access to electric panel, thermostat, furnace, water heater, attic, crawl space, the underside of sinks, and, in general, all interior surfaces where possible.
  
• Replace burned-out lightbulbs.
  
• Remove dishes from the kitchen sink; loading the dishwasher is acceptable.

During an inspection, the Inspector's primary responsibility is to provide information regarding the property to his client. If you, as the seller, are present, understand that the Inspector will be directing his attention to a buyer-client, as his customer, and should be allowed to do so in a confidential manner.

After the inspection, an inspection report will be prepared and forwarded to the client or his/her agent. The information contained in this report is confidential to the client. The Inspector is available to his client to answer any questions or explain any issues which may arise. It is the duty of an ethical Inspector to get permission from his/her client or agent prior to discussing aspects of the inspection with any other party.

At this point, the buyer will submit to the seller a written list of items that he/she wants to have repaired or replaced. The seller responds in writing as to which items he/she will remedy. Evidence of completion may be provided through contractors' invoices or reinspection.