WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTION INCLUDE?

We follow the stringent guidelines and inspection standards of the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). TREC sets standards of practices and the reporting format for all home inspectors in Texas. At Capital City Inspections, we comply with the TREC standards. To help us deliver quality service and a work product that meets our high standards, we utilize detailed home inspection checklists and software as part of our quality control process. These are based on the Texas Standards of Practice, which include: structural, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, appliances and optional systems.

HOW LONG DOES AN INSPECTION TAKE?

The inspector typically spends 2 ½ to 5 hours performing a thorough, visual, functional and operational inspection of the many mechanical and structural components of the home. The time is dependent upon the size and complexity of the home. The inspection includes an evaluation of such important elements as: Foundation, Roof, Attic, Plumbing, Electrical, Heating, Air Conditioning, Appliances, etc. A detailed computer report with digital color photos, in language that you can understand, can be furnished at the time of the inspection or preferably emailed or faxed to you within 24 hours.

CAN A HOUSE "FAIL" ITS INSPECTION?

No. A professional home inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items will be in need of major repair or replacement immediately or in the near future.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

We feel our primary purpose is to educate our clients so they can make informed decisions so we encourage the client to attend as much of the inspection as possible. By attending, you will learn firsthand about how the various components and systems of the house work together to create a safe and secure shelter for your family.

IF THE HOUSE PROVES TO BE IN GOOD CONDITION, WAS THE COST OF THE INSPECTION JUSTIFIED?

Absolutely. Now you can go forward with the purchase of your home confidently and with peace of mind. You will have a better understanding of your home and how best to schedule and budget any future repairs or renovations. The inspector's written report will prove invaluable in planning and working with contractors and vendors.

WHEN DO I CALL IN THE HOME INSPECTOR?

A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed.  The inspection should be scheduled early in the option period in order to provide ample time to evaluate any issues.

CAN'T I DO IT MYSELF?

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, their proper installation and maintenance. The inspector understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.