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Home Inspection
Don't Buy A Home Without One
Home inspection is useful in providing the prospective
buyer with a variety of information to aid in decision-making about whether to purchase a
particular home. An inspection by an objective home inspector can identify whether there
are major defects or inadequacies in a dwelling. It can also help the buyer to avoid
unpleasant future surprises and provide valuable information about future maintenance and
repair.
Most inspections are performed both visually and with equipment needed to check certain
components of a house. It is important to go inside and out to determine condition and
serviceability. If possible, the purchaser should be present for at least part of the
inspection. A whole-house inspection normally takes between 2 and 3 hours. After the
on-site inspection, a summary and recommendation report is written and provided to the
client along with a copy of the investigator's field notes. Once the client has reviewed
the completed report, the inspector should volunteer to explain the summary.
Alabama law requires that all home inspectors meet the requirements and guidelines set
forth by the Secretary of State of Alabama. When an inspector has complied with these
requirements, a registration number is assigned to the inspector that is to be used in all
advertisements and documents. The client should always make sure that an inspector is
registered.
Houses under construction that are located within the city limits of Cullman are required
to meet certain local codes established by the city. Homes that are constructed in the
county, however, do not have to be inspected. For the county, there are no established
requirements or standards that are enforced to help ensure that the public is protected
against sub-standard builders. An inspection is especially important where guidelines are
lax.
Even if the builder you select advertises in the yellow pages as a licensed and bonded
contractor, you cannot be certain based on the advertisement that the builder has a
builder's license and insurance. Make sure you check out the contractor. The Cullman
County Home Builders Association normally keeps a list of builders that are licensed. For
your own protection, do your homework before selecting a contractor.
Banks and mortgage companies are increasingly looking to inspectors to learn about the
general condition of the houses in which they are investing. Consumers are also realizing
the benefit and utilizing the assistance of inspectors to help in their decision about
buying and renovation plans. The inspector should agree that information gained from an
inspection will be kept confidential and for use only by the client. Such information can
be useful as a legal or negotiating tool.
Home inspection is a wise tool for any potential investor to ensure that the investment
made is in a quality home. A little expense on the front end can prevent a lot of
headaches down the road.
Derrick Blankenship
Derrick's Home Report, Inc.
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Last updated: Thursday, July 19, 2001 12:20:46 AM
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