A home inspection does not result in a pass-fail grade like a test. Instead, it provides a detailed assessment of a property’s condition.

The inspector identifies issues, potential problems, and safety concerns. Buyers and sellers use this information to make informed decisions about the property.

Whether a property is considered a “pass” or “fail” is subjective and depends on the individual’s perspective, needs, and willingness to address any identified issues. In most cases, the outcome of a home inspection leads to negotiations between the buyer and seller to address any concerns. It can also be used as maintenance and repair checklist on your future home.

Visit https://www.betapropertyinspections.com/your-report/ to view our sample report.

Don’t Wait

 Don’t wait until you have accepted an offer. You want to make sure you have enough time to find a reputable home inspector that is going to give a thorough unbiased inspection of your future investment.

Referrals are nice, Your Own Inquiry is Better

Referrals are a good start; however, you want do your own due diligence in finding the right inspector. You want to make sure your home inspector is working for you! You want them to give you an unbiased thorough inspection of the biggest investment you will make.

Check the Better Business Bureau, Google and Other Review Resources

 Check online to see if there have been any complaints about the home inspectors you are interviewing. Check online reviews and rating to get a sense of the inspector’s reputation and experiences from previous clients.

Cost

While price is a factor, don’t choose solely based on the lowest quote. Consider the inspector’s reputation, qualifications, professionalism, communication skills, and willingness to address your concerns.

 Choose an Inspector That Will Still Communicate to You After the Report is Sent

 Communication is key. It is important that you don’t feel abandoned once the report has been sent. If there are deficiencies on the report that you don’t understand, you need to be able to ask questions. Ask if the inspector provides post-inspection support for any questions or concerns that arise after the inspection

 Ask About the Report

The timing of the inspection is crucial, especially in a real estate transaction.  You also want to ask if a sample report if available, this will give you an idea of the thoroughness and clarity of their reporting.

Remember, the goal is to find an inspector who can provide a comprehensive and unbiased evaluation of your future home.

IS A HOME INSPECTION AND AN APPRAISAL THE SAME THING?

No, they are not. A home inspection is completed by a licensed home inspector and provides insight to issues in the home. An appraisal is typically done to determine the value of the home for a loan.

DOES A HOME INSPECTOR NEED TO BE LICENSED IN OHIO?

Yes, a home inspector in Ohio must be licensed. Ohio home inspectors are governed by the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing. Ohio home inspectors are required to complete continuing education annually. Radon and wood destroying insect inspectors must also be licensed in the state of Ohio. The Ohio Department of Health regulates radon testing and The Ohio Department of Agriculture trains and licenses wood destroying inspect inspectors.

HOW TO CHOOSE A HOME INSPECTOR?

Often times a realtor may suggest a home inspector they have worked with before or provide you with a list of three they recommend. However, you are not obligated to use these inspectors and you should do your own due diligence in finding an inspector. Make sure the inspector you choose will provide you with an unbiased opinion of your future investment and new home. Your inspector should be able to explain the defects and safety issues found, and answer any follow up questions you have after the report is sent.

WHO ATTENDS A HOME INSPECTION?

The buying agent should be present for the home inspection. It is recommended that the buyer is present for at least part of the inspection. This gives the buyer the opportunity to ask the home inspector questions, visualize some potential problems, and give them a better understanding of their future home.

WHAT DO HOME INSPECTORS LOOK FOR? 

A home inspection is visual inspection of your future home. The home inspector will look and report on:

• Heating system
• Central air condition system (temperature permitting)
• Roof and rain gutters
• Attic, including visible insulation
• Interior plumbing
• Electrical systems
• Walls and ceilings
• Floors
• Windows and doors
• Foundation
• Basement
• Structural Components

IS A HOME INSPECTION REQUIRED?

A home inspection is not required; however, it gives peace of mind about your investment. Home inspectors can often find issues that the buyer may not be aware of, giving possible negotiating power or even a better idea of what expenses you may need to budget for in the future.

HOW MUCH IS A HOME INSPECTION?

The cost of a home inspection typically depends on the size of the house. Generally, this ranges from $350-500 for a home inspection, not including any additional testing such as radon, wood destroying insets or mold testing.

WHO PAYS FOR A HOME INSPECTION?

The buyer usually pays for a home inspection and any additional testing such as radon testing, wood destroying insects, or mold testing.

HOW LONG DOES A HOME INSPECTION TAKE?

Home inspections typically take about 3 hours for the average home. Some larger homes may take a little longer.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET THE INSPECTION REPORT BACK?

This varies with each inspector. With Beta Property Inspections, the report will be sent within 24 hours of the inspection being completed.

WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR INSPECTION REPORT

Your home inspection report will identify defects in the home. Beta Property Inspections reports include pictures and videos if needed. The defects found on the report can be used for repair credits, lowering the sales prices, asking the seller to make repairs, or simply as a repair and maintenance checklist for your future home.

 

Call Beta Property Inspections today at 330-310-1730 to answer any other questions you may have or to schedule your unbiased home inspection. You can also check us out online at www.BetaPropertyInspections.com

 

Common Causes of Chimney Leaks

• Damaged or missing chimney cap
• Damaged bricks or worn-out mortar
• Cracked chimney crown
• Deteriorated or missing chimney flashing
• Condensation build-up inside the chimney

Signs Chimney is Leaking

• Water or condensation in firebox or the sound of dripping in the chimney
• White staining, also known as efflorescence on exterior masonry
• Water stains on the walls or ceiling near the chimney
• Damp walls or ceiling near the fireplace/chimney
• Strong musty odors, especially after it rains
• A damper that is squeaky from rust and is hard to move
• Cracks in the masonry

What to do About a Leaky Chimney

• Chimney cap repair or replacement
• Chimney flashing repair or installation
• Chimney crown repair or rebuild
• Tuckpointing to replace decayed mortar joints
• Brick replacement
• Complete or partial chimney rebuilding when the chimney damage is severe

 

For most chimney leaks it is best to leave this to the professionals and contact a reputable chimney contractor right away. Even if there are not issues with the chimney, it should be cleaned and inspected by a professional chimney sweep at least once a year.

Negative Grade (Poor Ground Sloping)

Poor grading and drainage around the home can cause water to pool around the home and moisture into the foundation. Proper grading is needed to ensure the water moves away from the foundation and the home stays dry.

Structural Issues

Horizontal or L-shape cracks in the exterior foundation, chimneys, outdoor steps, slabs and retaining walls are indications of potential foundation issues. Cracks on walls around doorways, windows and doors that stick, and sloping floors can also be indicators of an issue.

Elevated Radon Levels

Radon is an odorless, invisible radioactive gas that forms from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Typically, it moves through the ground to the air above and into your home. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the number one cause among non-smokers. The only way to know is to test.

Security and Safety Features

Doors and windows have working locks, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors should be present according to the authority having jurisdiction.

Plumbing Problems

Cast iron, polybutylene, and galvanized materials are outdated and no longer meet standards and should be updated. Water should drain freely without clogging or leaking. Visible leaks could lead to mold issues and should be fixed as soon as possible. 

Pest Infestation

Wood destroying insects like termites, carpenter ants and carpenter bees can cause significant damage to the home.

Roofing Problems

Aged and faulty roofs with cracked and loose shingles, improper flashing, or debris and moss covering can cause the entire home to be susceptible to damage.

 HVAC Issues

Along with ensuring the proper functioning of AC and furnace units, the flue pipes and ductwork should also be properly installed and free from any cracks and defects.  Gas-fired furnaces should have adequate ventilation to prevent gas leaks.

Faulty and Old Electrical Systems

Exposed wiring and splices, double tapped circuit breakers and dated knob-and-tube wiring present a danger for the home. These are fire hazards and need to be updated to meet current standards. Missing or faulty GFCI outlets are a common finding. GFCI outlets should be present in any areas of the home where a water source is present, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Water Intrusion

Floods, leaking pipes in kitchens and bathroom, roofs, windows, and from the foundation with a negative grade sloping towards your home. Intrusion can also occur in doorways, vents, and heating and cooling systems. Water intrusion can lead to structural issues and mold growth.