Central Illinois Inspection Corporation has provided you with useful home inspection information. 

Book a home inspection

What is a home inspection?

    A home inspection is a thorough visual examination and written report of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the foundation to the roof and everything in between. If problems or symptoms are found, further evaluation may be suggested.

Why do I need a home inspection?

    The purchase of a home is probably the largest investment of your lifetime. Before you buy, you should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs, so you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties later. A home inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a house as well as maintenance that will be required to keep it in good shape. With a home inspection, you will have a much clearer and objective understanding of the property you are about to purchase. For those who already own their home, a home inspection may be used to identify symptoms of problems before they occur and learn preventative measures you can take to avoid costly repairs in the future. If you are planning to sell your home, you may want to have your house inspected prior to placing it on the market. This will give you a better understanding of conditions which may have gone unnoticed, and an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

What does our home inspection include?

Our inspection includes a thorough inspection of nine areas of the home.

These are:

• Roofing, flashing and chimneys
• Exterior-siding, soffit, gutters
• Structure-foundation, walls, trusses, joists
• Interior-walls, ceiling, floors, doors and windows
• Electrical
• Heating
• Cooling
• Insulation
• Plumbing

Our home inspection report is computer generated “on-site” and includes digital photos and line drawings for clarity. The narratives are color coded to help you prioritize our findings. These features make our report easy to read and comprehend. Receiving the report the same day will minimize the “wait and worry” aspect of the home inspection process.

When do I call for a home inspection?

    Typically we are contacted right after the purchase agreement or contract is signed. We can usually perform the inspection within 48 hours. Before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both buyer and seller are obligated.

What happens after the inspection is complete?

    It is recommended that you are present for the inspection. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions directly, as you learn about the condition of the home, hoe its’ systems work, and how to maintain it. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you have accompanied the inspector. But if you are unable to be there we will gladly meet with you at a more convenient time to review the report. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy the property, only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may adjust the purchase price or terms of the contract if any major problems are found. Now you can finalize your purchase with an objective view and knowledge of the property and all its’ equipment and systems.

Ouestions to ask your home inspector