If the municipality where I am purchasing a house has an "Occupancy Inspection" at the point of sale, do I still need a "Home Inspection"?

An "Occupancy Inspection" is an inspection based on code enforcement and typically takes no more than fifteen minutes. It does not cover anywhere near the same scope as a home inspection and although some of these inspectors are very knowledgeable, they are the only inspectors in the state that have no education or licensing requirements.

Do the utilities need to be ON at the time of inspection?

Mechanical items can not be inspected unless the utilities are ON.

Should I get an inspection before I make an offer on the house?

While you're spending your hard earned money on an inspection, someone else may be writing an offer. Make an offer on the house first. You then have 5 working days to have it inspected and if there are serious problems you can resolve them, or revoke your offer and receive all of your earnest money back.

My "Real Estate Contract" states I only have 5 working days to have the property inspected. Can I get more time?

At the time you make your offer, go to the section on "Home Inspection" in your contract and draw a line through the 5 days and write 10, and then initial it. Your offer now includes a 10 day right of inspection. Ten days is a reasonable amount of time to get an inspection completed and review the outcome.

I am buying a building that is "New Construction" and the contractor does not allow home inspections. Can the contractor do that?

It has become a common practice for contractors to add a clause in their contract that prohibits home inspections. Always make sure you have this contract reviewed by your attorney before signing. If it’s to late, Call Tri-County we will get the inspection done.

I have been told that a property is being offered in "as-is" condition only, and have been advised not to get a home inspection because the seller is not willing to make any repairs. Should I still get a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is designed to identify the "as-is"' condition. You need to know what repairs are needed and then decide if you want to complete the purchase. The Seller may not be willing to make repairs, however, they may be willing to credit you for the cost of repairs. In any case, you need to know what you're buying.

How long does a home inspection take, and does the buyer need to be present?

A home inspection will take approximately 1 ½ hours to 2 ½ hours depending on the size and condition of the property. We strongly suggest the buyer be at the inspection, but it is not mandatory.

When will I receive the results of the inspection?

We provide the buyer a complete written inspection report at the time of inspection.