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A key element in any home remodeling project is the inspection. A professional home inspection can uncover potential problems before you begin, giving you an opportunity to factor those repairs into the cost of the project or rethink the scope of your remodeling. An independent inspection can give you peace of mind since it is an impartial, third party evaluation of the accessible structure and mechanical systems of a house. Most inspections run around $300, which is a small price to pay for assurance that your home is good working condition.
According to the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA), following are the most common myths – and the realities – about home inspections.
- Myth: You only need a general contractor to conduct your home inspection.
Reality: A home inspector works routinely with a range of properties – from new to old and very old. A general contractor deals primarily with new construction, which may make assessing the condition of an older home a problem. Another big differentiator: A home inspector will have more than common construction knowledge. He or she must recognize and evaluate a range of deterioration and wear affecting building structures and mechanics. Additionally, an inspector must understand building, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, electrical and fire safety. By relying only on a general contractor to evaluate your home, you may be missing the bigger picture. - Myth: All home inspectors’ credentials are the same.
Reality: In many states, professional home inspectors are not required to be licensed. As a result, you may find online home inspector organizations that will recommend “certified” inspectors. Experienced home inspectors have a broad base of knowledge in all areas of home construction, maintenance and safety issues, not just a listing on a fancy Web site. Before hiring an inspector, do your homework. Ask what organization certified the inspector; consult the Better Business Bureau and professional organizations for any complaints; and request references from at least three real estate agents and homeowners. - Myth: An inspection report isn’t needed as long as a qualified person tells you about the property.
Reality: You wouldn’t hire a contractor on conversation and a handshake. And you shouldn’t rely on what an inspector tells you about your property unless it is in writing. A written inspection report is the finished product of every home inspection. Make a point of being present for your home inspection so that the inspector can help you better understand your home’s systems and answer any questions on the items that are addressed in the report.
In general, you can expect the home inspector to evaluate the following:
- Electrical Circuitry: A thorough check of the fusing, switching system, equipment ground and correct polarity to determine that the current is safely controlled.
- Plumbing: The piping and fixtures that deliver drinking water, control sanitation at the point of usage, remove wastewater, and keep sewer gas out of the home.
- Heating and Cooling Systems: Includes operation of heating, exhaust, distribution, refrigeration, and other equipment used to heat and cool the house.
- Major Appliances: Kitchen, laundry and other major appliances are checked for operability and damage.
- Roof/Structural Components: Includes roofing membranes, gutters and downspouts, roof decking and rafters, ventilation and insulation.
- Exterior Drainage: Includes walks, drives, patios and the grading of surrounding lawn.
- Foundation: Includes elements that provide the primary load bearing assemblies for the house and control water penetration into the house.
- Fireplace/Chimney: Includes chimney alignment, chimney structure, chimney caps, dampers and condition of firebrick.
- Flow Chart
- Check List
- Planning Process Flow Chart
- Home Energy Checklist
- Standard of Practice
- American Society of Home Inspectors
- California Real Estate Inspection Association
2. Once you have the answers to the above questions, you're ready to dive into the details. You'll need to secure financing, locate an experienced contractor and then be prepared to enjoy your beautiful, newly renovated home.
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Find a Local Home Inspector
Whether you’re embarking on a major whole-house remodel or simply a room addition, a proper inspection can save you money and prevent you from making a poor investment. Click here to contact a local, licensed and reliable home inspector in your area.
Just thinking about where to start with a home renovation can be overwhelming. Between deciding what to renovate, finding financing, interviewing contractors, it's hard to know where to begin. First, relax and take a deep breath. Then take a close look at what you want - and need - from your home renovation. Here's what to consider:
- Your Goals
Why do you want to remodel? Has your family outgrown your current floor plan? Have you always wanted a gourmet kitchen? Do you plan to sell soon and want to get the most resale value possible? Establish what your overall goal is with the remodel. - Your Needs
Determine what you need to do to your home to meet your goal. Now is the time to prioritize projects - a new plumbing and heating and electrical system may be more important than replacing your home's flooring. - Your Budget
Write down everything that you dream about doing for your home renovation. Then, make another list of all the things that must be renovated or updated. Consider how much more a month you could put toward a home improvement loan or how much money you have saved for the project. Pick up the phone and call architects and contractors to get an estimate of how much your renovation will cost. Compare the cost estimate with your preliminary budget, and decide what you can reasonably afford to do. Plan to pad your budget 20% or so to account for unexpected cost overruns. - Your Timeframe
Does your home renovation need to be completed by a certain time or event? Are you planning to move out of town or are you having a baby and need the extra room? Renovations can take longer than expected, so only plan to tackle what can be accomplished within your timeframe. - Your Skills
Can any projects on your list become do-it-yourself projects? Do you have the skills - much less the time - to tackle such a project? Most people think they can easily retile a bathroom, install new hardwood flooring or build a new room addition only to find these projects still remain half-finished years later. Be realistic about what you can and cannot accomplish.
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