Home Inspection FAQ | Home Inspect New England | Rhode Island

Question 1

What is included in a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

A home inspection is a visual evaluation of the home's readily accessible systems and components. This includes the roof, gutters, and drainage; foundation and structure; electrical system and panels; plumbing systems; heating and cooling systems; insulation and ventilation; windows, doors, and exterior; and interior rooms and components. Each inspection is documented with photos and written observations in a clear, organized report.

Question 2

What is not included in a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

A home inspection is a visual evaluation of accessible systems and components. It does not include destructive testing, moving furniture or personal belongings, inspecting areas that are not safely accessible, or providing engineering, legal, or code-compliance opinions. Items behind finished walls, under flooring, or otherwise concealed are not inspected. The inspection report will note areas that were not accessible at the time of the inspection.

Question 3

What should I expect during a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

The inspector will conduct a visual evaluation of the home's readily accessible systems and components from the roof to the foundation. The inspection typically begins with the exterior and roof, then moves through the interior systems including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and all accessible rooms. Clients are welcome to attend and ask questions throughout the process. After the inspection, a written report with photos is delivered. Most inspection reports are completed within 48 hours of the inspection.

Question 4

How long does a home inspection take?

Accepted Answer

Most home inspections take between two and four hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the home. Larger or older homes may take longer. An estimated timeframe will be provided when scheduling.

Question 5

Can I attend the inspection?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Clients are welcome and encouraged to attend the inspection. Being present gives you the opportunity to see what is being observed, ask questions, and better understand the condition of the home. That context is often as valuable as the written report.

Question 6

When will I receive my report?

Accepted Answer

Most inspection reports are completed within 48 hours of the inspection. Larger, more complex properties or inspections requiring additional research may require additional time. Reports include written observations and photos documenting the home's readily accessible systems and components.

Question 7

Do you inspect condominiums?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Condominium inspections are available. A condominium inspection focuses on the interior unit and the systems that serve it, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, doors, and interior components. Common areas and building systems that are the responsibility of the condominium association are generally outside the scope of a unit inspection. The scope will be discussed at the time of scheduling.

Question 8

Do you inspect multifamily properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Multifamily property inspections are available. The scope of a multifamily inspection depends on the size and configuration of the property and will be discussed at the time of scheduling. Contact Home Inspect New England to discuss your specific needs.

Question 9

Should I have a new construction home inspected?

Accepted Answer

Yes. New construction homes should be inspected before closing. Builder schedules, subcontractors, and the pace of construction can result in items that are incomplete, improperly installed, or overlooked. A new construction inspection is performed before the final walkthrough and closing, giving buyers the opportunity to identify concerns while the builder is still responsible for corrections.

Question 10

What happens if issues are found during the inspection?

Accepted Answer

It is normal for a home inspection to identify items that require attention. The inspection report documents observations objectively, describing what was found and where. How you respond to those findings is your decision to make, often in consultation with your real estate agent. The purpose of the inspection is to give you clear, objective information, not to determine whether a home is acceptable or not.

Question 11

Does Home Inspect New England follow a standard of practice?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Home Inspect New England complies with the Rhode Island Home Inspector Standards of Practice as required by law, as well as the national InterNACHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics (https://www.nachi.org/sop.htm). These standards define the scope of a home inspection and our professional obligations to you.

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