The following are typical questions that our
clients have asked us over the years.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive physical examination of the structural and mechanical components of the home.
What does a "typical" home inspection include?
Gold Coast Inspections provides Full Comprehensive Home Inspections for our clients. This means your prospective new home will be inspected from A to Z and you will not see up-charges or additional fees for items such as; pool, spa, fences, sprinkler systems, etc. Our single family, townhouse and villa inspections include the Termite Report* at no charge.
Why do I need a home inspection?
There are many reasons to conduct a home inspection.
The primary reason is to protect your investment. It is wise
to understand what type of expenses you may incur once
you become the property owner. Would you have negotiated the purchase differently knowing defects existed?
Can I perform a home inspection myself?
This is not recommended. Not because we are in the business of performing this task, rather the average home buyer lacks the ability to view the property as an un-bias third party, remaining objective. The inspector has not interest as to whether your purchase the property, only that you are well informed as to the current condition of property.
What is a "Functional Defect?"
A functional defect is when the item or component does not function as it was intended or to manufactured specifications. This does not pertain to building codes, in particular old codes vs. new unless the item or component has been changed and falls short of codes at the time of installation.
What is a "Cosmetic Defect?"
Cosmetic defects are typically a blemish. These are common to paint, carpet, stained surfaces and sometimes cracks. The question becomes, "Does this defect inhibit the function of the item or component?"
Will our inspection include a "Mold Inspection?"
During the course of your inspection, our inspectors are
trained to look for signs of moisture instrusion and visible
evidence of suspected fungal growth where accessible.
If a situation exists, your inspector will bring the area(s) to
your attention, recommend the proper testing method(s)
and it will be your decision to have the testing performed.
Gold Coast Inspections has the ability to provide fungal
testing at an additional fee. If these conditions exist and the client chooses not to test, a Mold Waiver will be issued a the conclusion of the report.
Will "Mold" be stipulated in my inspection report?
In the event the inspector finds visible evidence of suspected fungal growth, it will be listed in the report as such. Our company cannot use the term "mold" unless the proper testing is performed and the lab reports conclude there is "presence of mold" or an "elevated condition of mold."
Can a house fail the inspection?
There is no pass or fail. The purpose of the inspection is to identify defects relating to the dwelling. This gives the buyer the opportunity to decide whether the investment is in their best interest. But remember the "functional" aspect of the inspection. If there is an 18 year old air conditioner and it is functioning properly, there will be no written advice as to the remainder of life or suggested replacement. It is the buyer's responsibility to make this determination.
Do you need to be present for the inspection?
We prefer that your are. Being present allows you the opportunity to walk the property with your inspector and take advantage the time together. There may be valuable information that can be conveyed on site. However, if you are not able to be present, the inspection will be conducted and report forwarded to you via fax or email and a follow-up conversation to review the findings.
Is your company affiliated with any real estate office or contractor?
No. We feel that financial relationships with agents or craftsmen to be in direct conflict of interest with the client. Our role is to provide a impartial, third person evaluation of the property and components.
My contract stipulates "As Is." Do I still need and inspection?
Yes. Regardless of the way your contract is drafted, hiring an inspector to evaluate the condition of property is prudent. The "As Is" term does not mean that there is something wrong with the property, rather the seller is not willing to take responsibility for anything that is.
Do I need a termite inspection?
Always. Anytime you're considering a single family,
townhouse or villa purchase, a termite inspection is
warranted and most lenders required this report in
order to fund. All of our Full Comprehensive Home
Inspections include a termite inspection* at no additional cost.
When will I receive my report?
All inspection reports are generated and forwarded to the client and the real estate agent the same business day, unless otherwise agreed by the client.
* All termite reports (WDO) are issued by Command Pest Control, a
fully licensed and insured Pest Control and Fumigation company.
