Frequently Asked Questions
SWF Home Inspection provides a wide range of home and commercial inspection services throughout Southwest Florida.
Call us today at (941) 493-4334 or schedule an instant quote or schedule online now!
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. The standard home inspector’s report will include an evaluation of 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 visible structure.
Why do I need an inspection?
What will an inspection cost?
The cost of an inspection varies based upon a number of factors, including size, age, special services requested, etc. However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. Rather, you should consider the inspection as an investment that will pay for itself many times over. You do not want the life-changing decision of buying a home to be something to regret.
Can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge, objectivity and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected thousands of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with all the elements of home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she understands how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate picture, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of inspection.
Can a house fail inspection?
No. A home inspection is meant to formally report the condition of a home. It is possible for there to be several issues with the home, but there is no failing a home inspection.
How long do inspections take?
For a normal single-family home, an on-site examination should take one inspector two to three hours on average; any time less might not be sufficient to conduct a complete inspection. It may be necessary to bring in more inspectors for really sizable structures and assets.
When do I call in the home inspector?
A home inspector is typically called right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
Should I attend the inspection?
We highly recommend that you attend the inspection, even if it’s just at the end to hear the inspector’s summary. Although our reports are thorough and include detailed pictures, nothing beats seeing things in-person.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector finds problems, it doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may be flexible with the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If your budget is very tight, or if you don’t wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.
Am I required to repair items on the inspection report?
Can a Seller have their house inspected prior to listing the house for sale?
Absolutely! A pre-listing inspection can identify concerns with the house and give the seller the opportunity to correct the problems prior to the sale. In this way, there will be no ‘suprises’ that come up during the buyer’s inspection. Concerns identified by the buyer’s inspection are often blown out of proportion due to the additional stress and time constraints involved with the real estate transaction. The pre-listing inspection allows the seller to address concerns in a rational and effective manner outside the real estate transaction environment thus ensuring the successful sale of your home.
Do you check for radon during the inspection?
Radon testing is not included in a standard home inspection. However, you can request that we test for radon in addition to your inspection. Visit our home inspection page to see what’s included in a standard home inspection!
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with peace of mind about the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned a few things about your new home from the inspector’s report, and will want to keep that information for future reference. Above all, you can feel assured that you are making a well-informed purchase decision, and that you will be able to enjoy your new home the way you want to.
Do I need an inspection on a brand new house?
Although builders do offer a warranty on their home, it is up to the buyer to identify problems to be corrected by the builder. Generally, builders allow the buyer to complete a walk through inspection to identify cosmetic concerns that are readily visible to the new homeowner. A professional inspection identifies functional problems related to the major systems that would not be identified during the walkthrough inspection. For example, is there sufficient insulation in the attic, are the electrical plugs wired properly and GFCI protected where required, roof issues, structural problems, etc. The new home inspection allows you to correct problems under the builder warranty, save you costly repairs and to provide you with peace of mind after you move in and when you eventually sell the house.
When will I receive the report?
The main inspection report will be sent to you on the same day as the inspection.
When do I pay?
Paying online with a credit or debit card will give you immediate access to the reports when they are available.
What services can I add on?
In addition to comprehensive inspections, our team is certified to perform the following inspections/services: pool and spa, windstorm mitigation report, four-point report, roof condition certification, indoor air quality testing, radon testing, mobile home tie-down certification, and WDO inspections.
What else do I need to do?
You must read and sign the inspection agreement before the inspection takes place. Use the link in the confirmation email you received to access the agreement page. The inspection may need to be rescheduled if this is not completed ahead of time.
What if I have questions about the report?
If there are any terms that you don’t understand just reach out to our office. The office team will answer what they can and will have the inspector reach out to you for anything else.
