A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. It is representative of the house at the time of inspection.

The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

InterNACHI publishes a Standards of Practice and also a Code of Ethics that outline what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report. Click on the Standards tab at https://www.nachi.org/ The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) publishes similar material pertinent to Texas law. A link to their Web site is available on my Helpful Links page, or you may use the following:http://www.trec.state.tx.us/inspector/rules_governing_inspectors.asp.

Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

Texas law now requires all home sales to have an inspection by an Inspector licensed by TREC.

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’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 house 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 home inspection.

Check with your Real Estate Agent about the requirements in your State.

No. A professional home 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 home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

TREC provides a current list of Texas Licensed Inspectors on its Website. See the link on my Helpful Links page, or use this one: http://www.trec.state.tx.us/inspector/inspector_search_by_city.asp.

Your real estate agent or broker is familiar with the service and may be able to provide you with a list of Inspectors from which to choose. You can ask friends or business acquaintances to recommend a home inspector they have used, or you can use this link http://www.nachi.org/find-an-inspector for a list of home inspectors in your area.

TREC and InterNACHI Inspectors are committed to the highest professional standards and business ethics.

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) is the world's most elite, non-profit inspection association. Our home buying clients enjoy the professionalism only InterNACHI Certified Inspectors can provide. Our inspectors have all successfully passed InterNACHI's Inspector Examination, taken a Standards of Practice Quiz, completed a Code of Ethics Course, adhere to Standards of Practice, abide by a Code of Ethics, attend required continuing education courses, and are InterNACHI Certified.

InterNACHI: the very best home inspectors.

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

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 home and how to maintain it.

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report, and will have that information for future reference.