Q: What is a home inspection?
A: A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation and ALL AROUND.  Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation.

Q. What does it include?
A: The standard home inspector's report will review the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure. 

Q: What kind of report is provided?  
A: You receive a computer generated report that will include the homes condition and a summary of recommended repairs along with any applicable pictures.  Not everyone knows everything about a house so we at All Around Home Inspections have found the use of pictures helps in understanding your future home even better. You will be emailed a log in and password later the same day as the inspection.  With this information, you can log into our website and view your report.  All Around Home Inspections respects your privacy therefore you will be the only one provided with your log in and password.  Feel free to share whatever information you like with anyone as you see fit as the report belongs to you.  Click here to see a sample report.

Q: Do I have to attend the inspection? 
A: You don't have to attend, but it is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn about your house. We prefer that you do attend and follow the inspector throughout the inspection. If you can't attend, please feel free to contact your inspector over the phone with any questions you may have about the home or the report.  Your real estate agent may also be able to assist you with questions as well.  

Q: How long does an inspection take?  
A: Usually about 2 ½ - 3 hours. The report is completed at the office later the same day as the inspection.  This not only allows All Around Home Inspections to provide a professional and detailed report, but it also allows you to continue on with your day as the report can take anywhere from 1-2 hours. 

Q: How do I choose a home inspector?  
A: Kansas is now requiring Home Inspectors to be licensed, insured or bonded, and kept up to date with their educational requirements.  Missouri is soon to follow.  Your best bet is to choose someone who IS licensed and is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). You may want to ask about Errors and Omissions insurance and years of experience. Be sure to choose someone you feel comfortable asking questions.  After all, they may be the inspector that helps you get to know your new home.  A GOOD INSPECTOR IS NOT ONLY GOOD AT INSPECTING, BUT ALSO GOOD AT COMMUNICATING.   

Q. What will it cost?
A: The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending upon the size of the house, particular features of the house, its age, and possible additional services, such as septic, well, or radon testing. It is a good idea to check local prices on your own. However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain.  Be wary of the “Volume” inspector who charges a low price as they may be doing 4-5 inspections a day.  With report and inspection, All Around Home Inspections will not do 4-5 inspections a day.  This will reduce the quality of the product that our customers are expecting from us.  The inspector's qualifications, including his experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration. 

Q. Can a house fail an inspection?
A: NO! A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal- which determines market value, or a municipal inspection- which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector should not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what may need repair or replacement. 

Q. What if the home inspection report reveals problems?
A: It’s very rare to find an issue free home.  If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. With information gained from a home inspection, a seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If you are a buyer and your budget is tight or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information may be extremely valuable to you. 

Q: What other inspections should I get?  
A:

• Most people choose to have a termite inspection done at the same time as their whole house inspection. Many FHA (HUD) loans are starting to require this.  For a small fee, it is definitely worth the peace of mind knowing that your family will be eating in your home while nothing is eating “on” your home.
• Radon testing is also advised, FOR ALL HOMES, not just those being sold. Visit our “RADON” link for information on what RADON is and what it can do.  It may help make your decision to have the service performed.
• Mold testing can be performed if you have a concern about your home.
• If you have well water, it can be tested for drinking quality.
• Septic system inspections may be required in some locations.
• Other inspections can be performed upon request.  

Q: What do I do after the inspection?  
A: This will depend on your real estate contract. A home inspector is not the "house police" and can't/doesn’t require repairs be made. That's up to you and your real estate agent if you are working with one. Most people use the summary of recommended repairs as a place to start negotiating. Sometimes repairs are made while other times a change in the price of the home is worked out. If you are working with a real estate agent, ask them. We feel it is important to take the age, price and condition of the home into consideration.  Sometimes issues are typical of the age and location of the home.  Letting your agent help you through this portion is strongly recommended as they will have experience in the negotiation process.  

Q: Is the inspection a guarantee of the future condition of the house?  
A: No. A home inspection describes the condition of the house, at the time of the inspection. It is impossible to predict when various components will fail. Warrantees are available for purchase from several sources. We do advise getting one to protect against future problems with the home or its appliances.  

Q. How do I find a home inspector?
A: If you are located in the greater Kansas City and Missouri area, contact All Around Home Inspections, Inc. and we will be happy to provide home inspection services for you. You can call us at 913-424-5903 or email us at travis@allaroundinspectkc.com.