This is a 6 point, brief explanation to help clarify what exactly is involved in a home inspection.
1) The average home inspection will take between 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. It is highly recommended to follow the home inspector during the inspection, as this is an invaluable educational experience to learn about the various aspects and systems of the house.
2) The InterNACHI Standards of Practice require home inspectors to inspect and/or describe: the structural system, the exterior, the roof system, the plumbing system, the electrical system, the heating and air conditioning systems, the interior, the insulation and ventilation systems, as well as, fireplaces.
3) Home Inspectors are (if properly qualified) trained in defect recognition. A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual observation of the condition of the property on the day of the inspection, and can include such tools as moisture meters, video scopes, gas meters, electrical instruments, infrared cameras, and temperature sensors.
4) Home Inspectors are not tradespeople. If your home inspector offers to fix any problems you encounter during the home inspection, this is a major conflict of interest. 5) Home Inspectors are generalists. Just like going to a family doctor (General Practitioner), properly trained home inspectors are trained in all areas of building construction. They can determine if it is necessary to consult a specific specialist in one of the many building trades.
6) Think of a home inspector as a detective, searching through the house for subtle clues that are used to build an overall impression of the house. This impression enables the buyer to have a much greater understanding of what they are buying, before they own it; helping to prevent unforeseen expenses.