Frequently Asked Questions
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual inspection of the major systems that make up a house.
What are the major systems of a house?
These include: foundation, structure, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, roof and lots/grounds.
What is the purpose of a home inspection?
The purpose is to inform the client of the home’s condition. The client can then make an informed decision weather or not to buy the home. The inspection report can also be used to negotiate the purchase of the home.
If I am purchasing a home should I have an inspection?
There is no perfect house. Weather it is brand-new or 105 years old, an inspection will reveal information that is important to you and your family. Factors such as aging systems, weathering of exterior components and homeowner's upkeep will affect the home’s condition.
Every home purchase should include an inspection by the buyer.
Should I buy this house?
The question of "buy" or "no buy" is really a personal matter and outside of a professional inspectors duties. Only you and your family can make that decision, and a quality home inspection is a key tool in making that decision informed.
How do I choose a home inspector?
Many factors play into choosing a home inspector.
Firsts, it's often a good idea to pick your own inspector. Real estate professionals work with many home inspectors and often refer inspectors to clients. Keep in mind that there may or may not be a working relationship between the agent and inspector. It may be more difficult for a home inspector to be unbiased on a home inspection when it came from a good client.
Second, check that the credentials of the home inspector. Many home inspection organizations have stringent criteria required to become a member. Passing exams and yearly continuing education are usually required in trade organizations, which keeps its members up to date on the inspection/housing industry.
Third, speak with the home inspector. Be sure to ask them about their background, experience and training. A home inspector with a well-rounded background is going to provide a more complete inspection, as opposed to someone specializing in construction, HVAC, electrical, etc.
Finally, your inspector should be friendly, courteous and be able to clearly explain the process and the results of their inspection. Go with the inspector you feel most comfortable with.
What is a Truth-In-Housing or Time-Of-Sale inspection?
Certain cities in the metro area require a home inspection prior to listing/showing your home. The purpose of the inspection is to maintain the housing stock in the cities. This inspection is less involved than a private inspection. The cities determine what is inspected and what the rating should be. Not having the inspection done is a misdemeanor in some cities and can result in a fine.
What cities require an inspection prior to selling a home?
Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Hopkins, Maplewood, Richfield, St. Louis Park, South St. Paul, New Hope, Crystal. More and more cities are requiring these inspections.
I recommend calling your city’s inspection department to confirm weather or not they require a Truth-in-Housing or Time-of-Sale inspection.
How long does a home inspection take?
Generally, a private inspection lasts about three hours. Truth-in-Housing and Time-of-Sale inspections generally last as long as 60 to 90 minutes. On occasion inspections do run longer than theses times.
For information on most common hazards, click below.
Bloomington'sMost Common Hazards (click for pdf)
MPLS 's Common Required Repairs (click for pdf)