Houston Home Inspections
Questions & Answers
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Houston Association of Realtors
ATEX Inspects
HOME INSPECTION QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What is a real estate inspection?
Let's face it not all home builders are created equally.  Some builders create great homes, and unfortunately, some don't.  A real
estate inspection is a visual examination of the systems and components of a structure.  No destructive probing will be
performed. The inspector will report on systems and structures that are readily available.  If the property owner is present,
inaccessible systems can easily be made accessible to the inspector.  The inspector however will not enter any area or structure
that they deem to be unsafe or that by doing so may cause property damage.  

Why should I have a real estate inspection?
The purchase of real estate is quite possibly your largest investment.  As with any investment, it is prudent to research all
aspects of the transaction.  A professional real estate inspection is one focus of that research.  The inspection and report will
inform you to the properties current condition and well as indications of future conditions.  Armed with this knowledge, you will be
able evaluate this transaction and determine requirements to maintain and protect your investment for years to come.  

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?  
Absolutely, a professional inspection of a new home is important.  We can spot potential problems early, while they are still easy
to correct.  It is especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls are finished.  As building professionals, we
may find problem areas where the builder has taken shortcuts or performed poor work.

Why do I, as a current Houston home owner need an inspection?
If your home is new, 2 years old or less, it's recommended to have a trained inspector identify areas of concern before your
builders warranty expires.  If your home is older, it's recommended to have a trained inspector identify issues and concerns with
you property before they become expense nightmares.  Preventive maintenance can allow you to avoid costly repairs in the
future.  If you are selling your home, a listing inspection will point out any potential problems that might be uncovered later by the
buyer’s inspector. Finding these issues out early will allow you to address them before listing your home, making for a faster and
smoother sale.

What will my home inspection report contain?
Your report will be very detailed in nature, consisting of a written report of 30-35 pages depending on the property conditions,
and digital photos showing details illustrations of areas or items in need of repair.  

When should I call Robert & A-TEX Inspects for my Houston home inspection?
Call for an inspection prior to signing any binding or obligating real estate documents, or before you begin your building or listing
phase of your real estate transaction.  You should also contact us prior to the end of your Houston home builder's one year
warranty.

Can I do the home inspection myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner will not have the in-depth knowledge required to safely check all the components of a
real estate system.  Typically you will have extensive knowledge of a particular system, but the inspector is trained to provide
you an in-depth and comprehensive report. He understands the system approach and how these relate to each other to provide
the highest level of quality and assurance.

Should I attend the home inspection?  
Definitely!  We strongly recommend that you plan on coming at the end of the inspection so that we can show you what we have
discovered and review what will be in the final report.  We want you to fully understand your new home and its systems. It's a
valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection.  You can ask questions
directly and the inspector can explain maintenance tips for specific areas.  Your inspector will let you know the appropriate time
when you schedule your inspection.  If you can't be at the inspection, we can arrange a telephone consultation to review the
report with you.  

What does a home inspection include?  
Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house.  Your inspection will cover the
following:  Structural Systems(Foundation, Roof; Attic Structure, Grading; Drainage, Gutters; Down Spouts, Attic Insulation,
Flooring, Walls, Ceiling, Stairs, Balconies, Railing, Doors-Interior; Exterior, Porches, Decks; Carports, Plumbing Systems, Water
Supply Systems;  Fixtures, Drains, Waste; Vents, Water Heating Equipment, Electrical Systems Service Entrance, Distribution
Panels; Branch Circuits, Mechanical Systems - Heating, Ventilation; A/C Heating Equipment, Cooling Equipment, Ducts, Vents;
Fireplaces and Solid Fuel Systems, Smoke and Fire Alarm Systems, Appliances, Dish washer, Food Waste Disposal, Range
Hood, Ranges, Ovens; Cook Tops, Microwave Cooking Equipment, Trash Compactor; Other Major Build-in Appliances,
Household Exhaust Fans, Garage Door Systems, Door Bell; Chimes, and Whole Home Vacuum Systems, Optional Systems.  
See pricing page for additional price list for Pools, Spas; Hydro Therapy Systems, Lawn Sprinklers, Out-buildings, Sheds,
Outdoor Cooking or Gas Appliances, Septic Systems and Water Wells.

How long will the home inspection process take?
The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home.  For most homes, 3 hours is fairly typical, but for larger
homes, or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.  Commercial inspections vary by the size and detail of the inspection.

What is a new home phase inspection?
Inspections conducted at various stages of the building process.  This inspection is typically performed at the pre-pour concrete
phase, plumbing and electrical rough in or the open-frame phase, sheet rocking and fixtures phase and final completion phase.

Should I consider Houston home inspectors who offer on-site reports?
Be aware of inspectors who offer on site reports.  How much preparation and attention is being put into instant reports.  Often
photos will show more that what was revealed at a first glance.  Inspectors offering on-site reports often deliver quantity versus
quality.



New Home Construction Phased Inspections:  

Residential Home (Buyers) Inspections:

Existing Houston Home Inspection:

One Year Builder's Warranty Inspection:

Four (4) Point Insurance Inspection:

Fact About Buying A Foreclosed Houston Home:

Commercial Property Inspections Services:  

Click Here to Review Our Sample Reports
Read Here to Answer All Your Questions About the Houston Home Inspection Process
Licensed and certified Houston Home Inspector & commercial inspection company that builds
customer trust through detailed, thorough and dependable home inspection services.