No home is without defects—even new homes. And, your home is one of the most expensive and personal investments you will make during your lifetime. Knowing as much as you can about the condition of the home can minimize unpleasant surprises, costly repairs and help ensure safety. An increasing number of people have a home inspection done before they purchase a home, during their home ownership and as they prepare to sell their home.
The certified inspector from Virginia Home Inspections (VHI) is highly trained in skills unique to this profession. Rather than dealing strictly with new homes as in the construction trades, he is specifically trained and experienced with existing homes, substandard workmanship, and the wear and tear caused by our harsh Appalachian environment. He knows exactly what to look for and where to look.
In addition, the home inspector will also report on the positive aspects of the home, instilling confidence, as well as pointing out required maintenance and familiarizing you with the operation of some of the home’s key systems. After your home inspection, you will have a much better understanding of the condition of the home.
Types of Inspections VHI Offers
VHI offers a wide range of inspection services to meet your home and property needs. Our inspections usually identify areas of concern or the need for maintenance before these conditions create more costly repairs or replacements. More importantly, our inspections focus on safety issues and can identify low-cost additions or upgrades that will make your home safer and more secure for your family and visitors. The inspection will also educate you on the operation of your home, its primary systems and current methods or alternatives to costly maintenance. The benefits and peace of mind you gain from these inspections will far exceed the actual cost of the inspection itself.
Before You Buy
Buyers Inspection
An increasing number of potential homeowners are electing to have a home inspection completed prior to finalizing the purchase of their new home. This is a very important step as it ensures that the prospective buyer is fully aware of any deficiencies or safety issues prior to finalizing the purchase contract.
During Home Ownership
New Home Warranty Inspection
Many new-home owner's are now having their homes inspected one or two months prior to the expiration of their builder’s home warranty (usually 12 months). This type of inspection may identify conditions that will lead to future problems. In most cases the inspection will point out existing conditions or concerns that may be covered under the original builder’s warranty and will allow the owners to have these conditions repaired at little or no cost.
Maintenance & Safety Inspection
If you have lived in your home for a long period of time, a maintenance & safety inspection can identity conditions that may lead to problems and provide you with recommend preventative maintenance measures. Not only will this provide you with the peace-of-mind of knowing that your residence is safe for yourself and others, it may also allow you to avoid costly repairs in the future. Additionally, current building safety standard deficiencies will be identified and can be easily added or retrofitted to existing residences.
Before You Sell
Sellers Inspection
The sellers inspection is completed prior to selling your home and can bring to your attention those things that a buyer’s inspector might otherwise identify. This allows you to be proactive and take any necessary measures to make needed repairs or maintenance and put the house in the best selling condition in order to foster a faster and more hassle-free sale. It may also reduce the buyer’s cost as you may elect to provide a copy of the inspection to the buyers in lieu of their own inspection.
