If you’re in the market to buy a home in DeKalb, one of the most important steps is getting DeKalb home inspectors to thoroughly evaluate the property prior to purchase. A premier home inspection can uncover issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye, potentially saving you from expensive repairs down the road. But what exactly should you expect when you hire a top-rated home inspector in the DeKalb area? Here’s a comprehensive overview.
The Inspection Process
A typical buyer’s home inspection takes 2-3 hours from start to finish. The inspector will begin outside, evaluating things like the roof, siding, windows, drainage, driveway and walkways. They’ll make notes and take photos as they go, documenting any areas of concern. As they move inside, they’ll carefully inspect each room, testing outlets, plumbing fixtures, appliances, HVAC systems, and more. Areas prone to moisture issues like bathrooms, basements and attics get extra scrutiny.
When evaluating the home’s systems, a premier inspector won’t just check that things are functioning. They’ll look for signs of age or potential failure down the road based on the system’s visible condition. For example, they may test water pressure and drainage speed to determine if galvanized pipes are narrowing over time. Or they might have specialized tools to diagnose problems not detectable through a simple test. When it comes to appliances, a top-rated inspector knows which brands and models have track records. They’ll be able to advise you accordingly.
At the end of the inspection, the DeKalb home inspectors will review their full report with you in detail, pointing out which findings require immediate repair versus routine maintenance. They will also distinguish between minor imperfections and major red flags. Reputable inspectors act in your best interest, not the interests of agents or sellers.
What Doesn’t Get Inspected?
While premier inspectors are very thorough, there are some things that fall outside the scope of a standard home inspection. This includes:
- Evaluating properties smaller than 1,000 square feet
- Assessing environmental hazards like asbestos, lead paint, radon, contaminated sites unless specifically testing for these things
- Examining decorative items like paint colors or carpeting unless a safety issue
- Testing security systems, phone lines, cable, satellite dishes or antennas
- Investigating drainage systems underground
- Determining boundary lines or room sizes
- Offering guidance on real estate value, regulations or zoning
- Dismantling equipment or moving furniture, stored items, soil, plants, snow etc. out of the way
- Operating shut-off valves or activating pilot lights
- Evaluating chimney flues
- Testing detached structures like pools, sheds and barns unless explicitly included
A premier home inspector will explain these limitations upfront before starting, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. Most exclusions are due to needing specialized expertise or equipment beyond a generalist inspector.
What to Expect in the Inspection Report
Once the on-site inspection concludes, reputable DeKalb home inspectors take the time to compile their findings into a detailed report. Expect this documentation to include:
- A summary of the overall condition of the home
- An itemized list of discoveries related to safety or function, distinguished by inspection area
- Descriptions explaining the nature and location of each discovery
- Digital photographs documenting issues
- Details on which findings require immediate repair, routine maintenance, upgrades etc.
- Recommendations for evaluations from specialized trades like roofers, electricians etc. if certain issues were beyond the inspector’s expertise
- Guidance for any observed items needing monitoring
- Documentation of areas unable to be inspected and why
Ask your chosen inspector how soon after the on-site evaluation you can expect to receive your full report. Many premier inspectors provide next day turnaround. The documentation should give you clarity on the home’s true condition to inform your buying decisions.
What to Look for in an Inspection Company
Clearly, the inspection process requires specialized expertise, technology and diligence to uncover potential issues accurately. So what should you look for when choosing home inspectors in DeKalb? Hallmarks of a premier firm include:
Advanced Training & Certifications
Highly skilled inspectors pursue advanced coursework in building science and components. They earn demanding certifications like Certified Master Inspector (CMI) to validate their expertise across all home systems. Choose a company where every inspector has strong credentials.
State-of-the-Art Tools
Top inspectors use cutting-edge technologies like drone and infrared cameras to access hard-to-reach areas. They leverage moisture meters, CO testers, thermographic scanning and more to detect issues not visible to the eye. Ask about their equipment.
Rave Online Reviews
The best indicator of expertise and professionalism is feedback from past clients. Do the company’s online reviews reflect 5-star service and thorough, accurate inspections? This is the best testament to their capabilities.
Strong Industry Standing
The premier firms belong to organizations like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) where members must adhere to strict codes of ethics and performance standards. Verify these affiliations.
Family Owned & Operated
Many of the most trusted inspection companies in DeKalb are family owned and operated, not impersonal franchises. These owners directly oversee hiring and quality control. They have personal pride in building generational legacies of excellence.
Reasons to Invest in a Premier Home Inspection
In today’s competitive housing market, buyers may feel tempted to waive inspections to strengthen offers. But this represents an enormous, risky gamble. Premier home inspections are extremely worthwhile for the following reasons:
Pinpoint Hidden Flaws – Even new construction or recently renovated homes can conceal serious defects not apparent to the average buyer. Only an exhaustive inspection by a premier company using advanced diagnostic tools can uncover these issues before you purchase.
Understand True Costs – Discovering existing or upcoming repairs needed allows buyers to accurately calculate total property costs and budget accordingly. Don’t get saddled with surprise expenses that jeopardize affordability.
Leverage for Negotiations – Documented inspection results provide objective evidence to negotiate credits, price reductions, or seller-funded repairs from the current owners. This can recoup the cost of the inspection itself.
Informed Decisions – The thorough reporting from high quality inspectors allows buyers to make better-educated choices about whether to move forward with a purchase and under what terms. Don’t buy blindly.
Peace of Mind – Perhaps most importantly, a comprehensive inspection from a premier DeKalb company brings immense peace of mind. You’ll know your dream home’s true condition rather than buying into unexpected headaches.
