Popular Pre-Inspection Questions
The first introduction to our clients is typically over the phone when they first reach out to us. They often may have never had to arrange and inspection before. Often they may be a little apprehensive ad not sure of all the questions they should ask. We remember what that was like! So we make a point to take the time to explain details of the entire process, what they can expect, how we welcome them to be a part of it, until they’re feeling more comfortable and confident working with us.
In truth, we do the same with everyone who calls us. Questions are good and we’ll take all the time you need to feel fully informed.
These are some of the questions we often receive in our initial conversations with people contacting us to find out what home inspection services we offer:
1. What’s the price?
Home inspection prices are based off the square footage of the home or outbuildings. Pricing information for our services is also posted on our website. However, we’re more than happy to email or send our price list directly to either you or your realtor. You can send your request straight from our Contact page or feel free to call us directly at 989-272-2674.
2. When are you available?
Availability varies week to week and day by day. People who contact us are typically working within a tight deadline based on their purchase offer. We understand and anticipate people may call us with very little lead time. We try to accommodate everyone while ensuring we aren’t compromising the time required to perform a thorough, comprehensive inspection and report. It’s best to call and schedule an appointment to have a guaranteed spot.
3. What’s the inspector’s background?
Prior to being a home inspector, Shane was a union heat and frost insulator. Visit our About page to learn more about how Shane’s background led him to become a certified professional home inspector.
4. Do I need to attend?
It’s not required that you attend the inspection but highly encouraged. During your appointment, Shane will explain many different aspects and features of your home. Being present during a home inspection gives buyers the chance to ask questions and receive on the spot answers. We make it a point to be readily available to answers any questions you may have after your inspection has been completed, as well as anytime after receiving your inspection report. However, there is just no better time than during the inspection for buyers to ask questions and/or express their concerns.
It varies agent by agent, but many realtors always attend inspection appointments with their clients, while others may not unless they have discussed it first with their buyer. If you’d like to have your real estate agent attend with you, be sure to ask them directly so schedules can be coordinated.
If you absolutely can’t make it to your appointment, there are those in the inspection field who recommend checking with your agent to see they will attend in your absence. A firsthand account from someone who was there on-site to visually see what’s being inspected and ask clarifying questions in person.
5. What is going to be inspected?
Home inspections are an evaluation of the visible and accessible interior and exterior structure, systems and components. Our standard home inspections cover the condition of the home heating system, central air conditioning system, interior plumbing and electrical systems, roof, attic and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, the foundation, basement and structural components and more. For more information about our inspection services, please click here to visit our services page.
6. How long will the inspection take?
Inspections generally take 2-3 hours depending on the size of the home, the number of issues found and questions the buyer has.
7. How do I pay you?
We accept cash, check or credit card at the time of inspection. If you are unable to attend the inspection, prior to the appointment, we will email an invoice for you to pre-pay with a credit card payment through Square, Inc., our payment processor.
8. Do you have a website?
Yes! Find us at: athomeinspectionsmi.com
9. Where are you located?
We are currently based out of Auburn, Michigan, but we’ll be moving to the Standish, Michigan area soon. We’ll continue to perform inspections in the Tri-cities and Mid-Michigan areas while expanding our service area in Northern Michigan to include Arenac, Iosco, Ogemaw, Roscommon, Clare and Gladwin counties. More of our home inspection service area information by clicking over to that page.
10. How long will it take to get my report back?
We understand most buyers have time constraints imposed by their purchase agreement, so we work diligently to provide your report within 24 hours of the inspection. We take pride in providing thorough, comprehensive reports for our clients. Our client reports are organized in an easy to follow format, complete with annotated photos and descriptions of the inspected areas of your home. A summary provides a quick overview and along with any areas of concern.
Click over to our home inspection report page to see a sample of the type of report you’ll receive.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, whether immediately after receiving your report, or down the road – we’re here to answer any and all questions you may have!
