When interviewing a home inspector, ask the inspector
what type of report format he or she provides. There are
many styles of reports used by property inspectors, including
the checklist, computer generated inspection programs,
and the narrative style.
Some reports are delivered on site and some may take
as long as 4 - 6 days for delivery. All reporting systems
have pros and cons.
The most important issue with an inspection report
is the descriptions given for each item or component.
A report that indicates the condition as "Good",
"Fair" or "Poor" without a detailed
explanation, is vague and can be easily misinterpreted.
An example of a vague condition would be:
Kitchen Sink: Condition - Good, Fair, or Poor.
None of these descriptions gives the homeowner an idea
what is wrong. Does the sink have a cosmetic problem?
Does the home have a plumbing problem? A good report
should supply you with descriptive information on the
condition of the site and home. An example of a descriptive
condition is:
Kitchen sink: Condition - Minor wear, heavy wear, damaged,
rust stains, or chips in enamel finish. Recommend sealing
sink at counter top.
As you can see, this narrative description includes
a recommendation for repair. Narrative reports without
recommendations for repairing deficient items may be
difficult to comprehend, should your knowledge of construction
be limited.
Take the time and become familiar with your report.
Should the report have a legend, key, symbols or icons,
read and understand them thoroughly. The more information
provided about the site and home, the easier to understand
the overall condition.
At the end of the inspection your inspector may provide
a summary with a question and answer period. Use this
opportunity to ask questions regarding terms or conditions
that you may not be familiar with. A good inspector
should be able to explain the answers to your questions.
If for some reason a question cannot be answered at
the time of the inspection, the inspector should research
the question and obtain the answer for you. For instance,
if the inspector's report states that the concrete foundation
has common cracks, be sure to ask, "Why are they
common?" The answer you should receive will be
along these lines: common cracks are usually due to
normal concrete curing and or shrinkage. The inspector's
knowledge and experience is how the size and characteristics
of the cracking is determined.
We recommend that you accompany your inspector through
the entire inspection if possible. This helps you to
understand the condition of the home and the details
of the report.
Read the report completely and understand the condition
of the home you are about to purchase. After all, it
is most likely one of the largest investments you will
ever make.
Gerard Amsalem
At Beachfront Realty
(305) 303-3371
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