


Q: What is a Home Inspection?
A: A home inspection is an objective visual analysis of a homes structure and systems. An
inspection will determine the areas of a home that are not performing properly, as well as
items that are beyond their useful life or are unsafe. Inspections include areas of the
homes interior and exterior, from the roof to the foundation and the exterior drainage and
retaining walls. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further
evaluation. A home inspection is a visual inspection to determine problems or conditions
that exist at the time of inspection. A home inspection is not a warranty. A warranty can be
obtained separately.
Q: How do I choose a Home Inspector?
A: Call and ask about their credentials and experience. If for some reason you don’t feel
comfortable asking this of the inspector when speaking with them on the phone then how
will you feel asking questions at the inspection. You must feel that the inspector is
qualified, experienced and attentive to your needs.
Q: What qualifications or credentials should a Home Inspector offer?
A: When choosing a home inspector, begin with a list of association members in your
area. Then check to see who among these is the most experienced and has the most
outstanding reputation for thoroughness as an inspector. Be sure to attend your
inspection. That way you can learn as much as possible from your inspector. Some have
college degrees in fields related to construction such as engineering and architecture. A
few have passed the same code certification examinations that building code officials are
required to pass.
Q: How long will the Inspection take?
A: Most inspections take about three to four hours. These times may very depending on
the size, age and condition of the home.
Q: Why use my services?
A: The purchase of a home is one of the single most costly investments that a family will
make. Along with the extra stresses this will add, there is also the factor of, “will this home
stand the test of time?” It is also important to know what YOU, as the primary investor, are
getting for your money.
A home inspection is an excellent tool for you, the home buyer, to help determine not only
the condition of the home, but to also help foresee any immediate unnecessary additional
cost that may go unnoticed without the help of a home inspection. Home inspections are
not a prediction of future performance, but can pinpoint existing problem areas.
Q: Why can’t I have someone in my family who is handy or a contractor, inspect
my home?
A: This is the biggest mistake that many potential homeowners make when purchasing a
home. Although the person you are considering may be very skilled, they are not trained
or experienced at professional home inspections. Professional home inspection is a
unique skill like no other. Professional inspectors get what we call an inspectors instinct
for problems. That instinct takes extensive training and lots of experience doing
inspections to develop. Home inspectors do not sell repair work for any problems found,
as some contractors do. Many contractors, and other trade professionals, hire a
professional home inspector to inspect their homes when they make a purchase.
Q: Why do I need a Home Inspection?
A: The purchase of a home is one of the largest purchases most people will make. It is
important that you know as much as possible about this purchase. A home inspector is
trained to be able to evaluate the home in detail and give you a report that will allow you
to make a good decision about purchasing the home. An inspection report will describe
the home in detail and will highlight the areas that are problems. A home inspection is a
good idea even if you are already a homeowner. We all get physical checkups-why not
give your home a checkup? Many homeowners are living in homes that have serious
problems that if identified early can save considerable repair costs. Water leaks can
cause serious and costly problems, but if they are caught early they can be repaired at
little cost. A home inspection will also give you an outline of the routine maintenance that
needs to be done to a home. Home sellers will want a home inspection to find problems
that a buyer’s inspection would have found. The seller can then make the repairs prior to
the home going on the market.
Q: What will a typical Home Inspection cost?
A: Each home inspection company has their own pricing structure. Inspection fees vary
based on the area of the country and the type, size and features of the home or building.
Most inspectors will charge extra for services such as radon testing, termite inspections,
well and septic inspections. The cost of the inspection should not be the only
consideration for hiring an inspector. A good inspection that informs you of all the
potential problems in a home is worth the money. A bargain inspection may give you an
inferior report. Once you have purchased the home, it may be very costly to repair
problems that were omitted from the inspection report.
Q: When should I call for a Home Inspection?
A: You will want to have the home inspected within a few days after the purchase
agreement is signed. You want to make sure you have a clause in your purchase
agreement that allows you to have an inspection and that you have the right to terminate
the agreement if you find the home in unsatisfactory condition. This clause should specify
the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
Q: What if the Home Inspection report reveals problems?
A: Almost all homes will show problems. Your inspector will be able to identify major
problems that will be costly. Minor problems are to be expected and can be repaired after
closing. Major problems way require a negotiation between you and the seller as to how
to fix the problems. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major
problems are found. If the problems are costly, you will be able to make your decision
about purchasing the home with the proper knowledge about the future cost of that home.
Q: Do I need to be there during the inspection?
A: No, you are not required to be there for the inspection. But I highly recommend that
you be present. It is a valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get
the most benefit from the inspection. By following the inspector you can ask questions
directly and the inspector can explain maintenance tips for specific areas. I feel you will be
able to better understand the finished report and get the greatest benefit from it by
having been there during the inspection.
Q: Aren’t all Home Inspectors the same?
A: Not by a long shot. Being a home inspector is a highly specializes and demanding
profession. It requires proper training, education, experience and dedication. It also
requires the most up to date tools. Ohio does not require any of these things to become
an inspector. You are a smart consumer, that’s why you are searching the internet. Do
not take a chance hiring a home inspector that may not be qualified. Check certifications
and credentials. I have over 20 years of experience in the construction industry. I know
the ins and outs. In addition, as an independent home inspector, you will get the true
picture of the property you are considering because I work only for you and no one else.
You can be confident of your choice when you choose me as your home inspector.
Q: What if I have questions after the inspection?
A: You can call me and I will be happy to assist you in any way I can. Even after you are
moved in and settled down to enjoy your new home. I am always available to you, for as
long as you own the home, to offer unbiased advice and recommendations.
"Inspected once, inspected right." TM
David Delzeith cell: (440) 522-6465 home: (440) 930-0343 email: david@dadhomeinspections.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
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