OK…. Your real-estate agent has given you two or three residential home inspectors to choose from, or maybe you’ve got a list of referrals from friends, or maybe you were surfing the internet for suggestions. How do you narrow it down further? We suggest a phone interview. Call up the inspector and find out how he/she responds to some key questions. You’re not only looking for the “right” answer, but you’re also looking for someone who communicates well. Remember your inspector has to be able to explain clearly to you any problems with your property. He/she needs to be able to put items into context (is this a big deal or not?). Here is a standard “Q&A script” to give you some structure for that interview.We feel that there are two major reasons for a home inspection. Foremost is the opportunity for you to be informed of the maintenance that is required and necessary repairs for your property (or prospective house). It is also a chance to identify issues with your property that need to be resolved before settlement.  Every property has some problems. It is the residential home inspector’s job to find the significant ones and put them in the proper perspective for you to be able to make informed decisions and for you to be equipped to maintain your home in good working order.

2. What do you look for in a home inspection?

A home inspection is primarily a visual inspection. We can’t see into walls, but we’ll look for available clues for the health of the house. We evaluate the foundation, structure, roof, plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical. We also look at the grounds and exterior for safety and long-term maintenance items.

3. What standards do you follow?

Our inspectors follow the standards set by CREIA, the California Real Estate Inspection Association, the leading authority in the building inspection industry in California. CREIA requires obtaining initial training, passing a rigorous exam, and mandatory adherence to professional standards of practice and participation in continuing education.

3. How long will your inspection take?  How do you report your findings? When can I expect the report?

Our inspections take two to three hours on average.  We like for you to participate in the home inspection. Walk around with us, ask us a bunch of questions, make sure you’re comfortable with your new home.  We provide you a detailed report via e-mail with accompanying photos of problem areas noted.  The report will be sent out within 24 hours of completion. 

4. Why should I choose you over another residential home inspector?

West Coast Home Inspections provides you a thorough inspection from qualified home inspectors. Our goal is not to get done quickly; our goal is give you the inspection you need to make an informed decision. This is a big move for you and we want to provide you with the most thorough support we can. We are available after the inspection to answer any questions or concerns you may have.  Our inspections are a long term investment!

5. How much does the home inspection cost?

Note: If you’re shopping for cost, be careful. Choosing the cheapest (or most expensive) may not give you the best inspection. It seems logical, however, to ask the residential home inspector this question. In our area some inspectors charge by a percentage of the sales price, some charge by square footage.

We charge by the finished square footage of the property.  Feel free to call me at (818) 266-2267 or our office at (818) 755-9791 for pricing.  Payment is due at the completion of the inspection. We accept only cash or check.

Call me at 818-266-2267 or check our website link below for further details or any information on our home inspection services.

Shawn Blaney,

President,

West Coast Home Inspections

http://www.westcoast-inspections.com/

Home inspection for the home buyer can make your dream home a worry-free reality. This is our mission statement at West Coast Home Inspections.