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- What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and testing of systems and appliances of a home. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are found the inspector may recommend further evaluation by a professional in the field that the problem exists (i.e. for example, a Plumber or Electrician). A home inspection is not a warranty or a check for compliance to local building codes. It is a visual inspection of a home to determine problems or potential problems that exist or can be visually determined at the time of the inspection. Home Inspections in the State of Texas are regulated by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). All Home Inspectors must be licensed and perform a home inspection that complies with the TREC Standards of Practice. There are three levels of licensed Real Estate Inspectors in the state of Texas: -Apprentice Inspector - Real Estate Inspector - Professional Real Estate Inspector. Only a Professional Real Estate Inspector can perform unsupervised Home Inspections. Be sure that your inspection is performed by a Professional Real Estate Inspector, not a Real Estate or Apprentice level inspector.
- How is an inspection done?
I have a very well defined procedure guided by my 500+ Point Inspection. This process allows me to meticulously inspect all areas of your new home and property while the checklist helps to ensure that all appropriate items are inspected and tested.
- Why should I get a Home Inspection before I buy a home?
You will receive several benefits from your investment in a Home Inspection. Some key benefits include:
- Helping to determine whether there are any major flaws in the structural or mechanical elements;
- Identifying if any safety hazards exist;
- Making you familiar with your new home and any visible minor problems that you can address at your convenience.
- Knowing this information before you close on the home can save you thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs and unnecessary emotional stress. See my "Buyers Inspection" page at the menu bar for more details.
- Can I do the Home Inspection myself?
Even the most experienced handyman homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a licensed Professional Home Inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes during their career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. They understand how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, and how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers or sellers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.
- Should I be present at the Home Inspection?
This is entirely your decision. Being present at the inspection gives you the opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of the true condition of the property you're considering. However, If you are not present at the inspection, you can always contact me after you receive the inspection report for any questions or concerns you may have. In regards to being present "during" the inspection; it is not necessary as I will allow enough time to go over my findings with you at the end of the inspection.
- How long does the Home Inspection take?
A complete and thorough Home Inspection should take between 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on the size, age, amenities, and conditions of the property. I will take enough time to perform a thorough Home Inspection and to conduct any research required to complete your report.
- When will I receive my inspection report?
You will receive the inspection report 24 to 48 hours after the inspection has been completed. If the inspection is performed on a Friday, Saturday, or the day before a holiday, the inspection report delay does not include the weekend or holiday time. I will make every attempt to provide the report in a timely manner depending on your options period.
- How far in advance can I set up a Home Inspection?
Home Inspections can be scheduled as far in advance as my online schedule calendar will allow (see "SCHEDULE AN INSPECTION" link at the menu bar). My online schedule calendar requires a minimum of 12 hours; however, I understand that sometimes things like a Home Inspection is left to the last minute so I will make my best effort to accommodate your needs. Before you sign the home purchase agreement be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a Professional Home Inspector - even if the home is being sold "as is". This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
- Where do you perform Home Inspections?
I perform Home Inspections in the West Texas and Southern New Mexico area (New Mexico does not regulate Home Inspectors and do not require them to be licensed). This includes: El Paso City, El Paso County, Horizon City, Socorro TX, Fabens, Clint, Santa Teresa, and Chaparel.
Please contact me if you do not see your area listed. Other locations (i.e. Las Cruces) may require additional paid travel time (Contact me for a quote).
- What does a Home Inspection cover?
Home Inspections in the State of Texas are regulated by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Every home inspector in the State of Texas is governed by these Standards of Practice. A complete description is presented at the TREC Website - http://www.trec.state.tx.us for your reference.
- What is a Deficiency? A Deficiency (as defined by the Texas Real Estate Commission - TREC) is a condition that, in the inspector’s reasonable opinion, adversely and materially affects the performance of a system or component or constitutes a hazard to life, limb, or property. General deficiencies include but are not limited to inoperability, material distress, water penetration, damage, deterioration, missing parts, and unsuitable installation.
- Why should I have my home inspected before I list it for sale?
Investing in a Pre-Listing Home Inspection will give you knowledge that will help you to properly price and sell your home. All too often issues identified by the buyers home inspector can cause closing delays, result in you paying for last minute repairs, lowering your selling price, or worse, causing the buyer to walk away. See my "Sellers Inspection" page at the menu bar for more details.
- Did I really need an inspection if the house proved to be in good condition?
Definitely! Now you can complete your home purchase with your eyes open as to the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned many things about your new home from your inspection report. You should keep that information for future reference. The inspection will also give you information that can help you to prioritize future repairs or upgrades.
- Who will be performing my inspection?
James Wicker, Texas Professional Real Estate Inspector (TREC Lic. 10209), conducts all inspections.
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