What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a professional, objective, visual examination of the condition of a home. Home buyers entering the marketplace view inspections as a way to gain valuable information about the biggest purchase of their lifetime. It helps them to determine whether there are any major defects or system inadequacies at the time of purchase.

In most cases, home inspections are performed after a sales contract, conditional upon a satisfactory home inspection, has been accepted by the seller. The inspection can usually be arranged immediately to within a few days. The home buyer is typically encouraged to attend the inspection, so that he/she can see first hand the workings of the home. It also represents an excellent opportunity for the prospective buyer to ask questions about the home or to discuss potential changes.

Home inspections should also highlight the positive aspects of a home. In fact, many of the home inspector's observations or recommendations help to dispel home purchaser anxieties, and provide useful repair suggestions.

Inspectrum Inc.'s service to the purchaser is primarily one of education. The goal of our inspectors is to provide the purchaser with a better understanding of the physical condition of the home in order that they can make a well-informed decision. We also feel that it is our role to keep our findings in perspective for the buyer. Our report is computerized using a Tablet PC so when the inspection is completed, the report is printed and reviewed with the home buyer, documenting the results of the inspection. We can also email the report for easier storage and distribution to attorneys or agents. The home inspection should not be confused with an appraisal, a municipal code inspection, an environmental audit, or a home owner's warranty.

Inspectrum Inc.'s home inspection will cover all of the major systems, including structure, exterior, roofing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing and interior. Our inspectors are licensed by the State of Illinois and adhere to the Standards of Practice set forth by the Office of Banks and Real Estate.

Consumers should be very careful when shopping for a home inspector. The industry on the whole had been unregulated (Illinois requires a license) and many unqualified people offer home inspection services. Home inspection companies that offer to do repair work should be avoided.