Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly does a home inspection include?
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual evaluation of the home’s accessible systems and components. This includes the roof, exterior, foundation, structure, attic, electrical system, plumbing, HVAC, interior spaces, built-in appliances, and more.
Inspections follow the Ohio Standards of Practice (OAC 1301:17-1-17) to ensure a consistent and professional evaluation.
2. What is NOT included in a standard home inspection?
A standard inspection does not include:
- Environmental or health testing (radon, mold, asbestos, lead, air/water quality, pests, etc.)
- Code compliance evaluations
- Engineering or architectural analysis
- Invasive or destructive examination
- Predictions of future performance, remaining lifespan, or insurability
3. Will you move furniture, stored items, or personal belongings?
No. Inspections cover readily accessible areas only. The inspector does not move furniture, appliances, heavy items, insulation, personal belongings, or anything that could cause damage to the property.
4. Will the report tell me whether I should buy the home?
No. The inspection report identifies deficiencies and safety concerns, but it does not provide advice on whether to purchase the property or estimate repair costs. The report is a tool to help you make an informed decision.
5. What is a “deficiency”?
A deficiency is something the inspector determines is not functioning properly at the time of inspection.
However, a system that is old or near the end of its service life is not automatically considered defective unless it fails to operate as intended.
6. What are “latent defects,” and are they included?
Latent defects are hidden issues that cannot be seen during a visual inspection—such as leaks behind walls, underground issues, or structural problems concealed by finishes.
Because the inspection is visual and non-invasive, latent defects cannot be identified or guaranteed against.
7. Do you determine whether the home meets current building codes?
No. While safety concerns may be noted, the inspection does not evaluate building code compliance.
8. Do you determine if the home is insurable?
No. Insurance companies use their own criteria. The inspection does not determine or influence insurability.
9. Can others rely on my inspection report?
No. The inspection and report are for the client only. If anyone else chooses to rely on the report, they are bound by the same terms as the client—but no warranties or guarantees are extended to third parties.
10. What should I do if I have questions after I receive the report?
You should read the full report and contact the inspector with any questions. The written report—not verbal comments—contains the official inspection findings.
11. What if I discover an issue after the inspection that wasn’t in the report?
Contact the inspector before making repairs and allow an opportunity to evaluate the condition.
If repairs are made before the inspector can return, the inspector cannot be held responsible for that issue.
12. Do you offer re-inspections of repairs?
Yes. Re-inspections can be scheduled to check items that were repaired.
A re-inspection only evaluates whether the previously noted deficiency still visually exists, not whether the repair was performed to code or industry standards.
13. Is the inspection a warranty or guarantee?
No. A home inspection is not a warranty, and the inspector is not an insurer. The inspection reduces—but cannot eliminate—uncertainty about a property.
14. Do you inspect for radon, mold, termites, or other environmental hazards?
These are not included in a standard home inspection.
15. Can I attend the inspection?
Yes—attendance is encouraged. It helps you better understand the home, any issues found, and how various systems function.
16. Who benefits from the inspection report?
The report is for the client’s exclusive use to help evaluate the property’s physical condition.
17. Is the agreement required before the inspection?
Yes. To comply with Ohio regulations and to protect both parties, the inspection agreement must be signed prior to the inspection.