Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the inspection take?
About 3 to 4 hours for most houses. Larger homes and older homes may take longer. I inspect no more than two houses a day. Other inspectors do more inspections in a day, but I spend more time and attention on your home inspection to provide you the detail you need!
May I Attend The Inspection?
Yes, you should attend the inspection to get the most benefit. You should be suspicious of any inspector who doesn't want you along during the inspection. During the inspection, I prefer to focus on the inspection, then review everything with you after I'm finished. We'll walk through the house and look at everything I found.
What's Included In The Inspection?
A home inspection is a visual evaluation of the major systems in the house including structure, roof, exterior, heating/cooling, plumbing, electrical and the interior. As long as it's safe and accessible I'll walk on roofs, enter attics and crawl spaces, remove access panels and operate equipment. I'll look at every room in the house using the Standards of Practice of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI®). See the sample reports for examples of what's covered.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of a home inspection is usually a small fraction of the cost of the problems discovered - truly the deal of a lifetime! The fee varies with the size of the house and other factors. If you'd like a quote please call me and describe the house.
When Will The Report Be Ready?
Normally the day of the inspection. I can also have a copy sent by e-mail or fax. When ordering, please let us know when your deadline is.
What If The Report Reveals Problems?
No house is perfect. I may find things that weren't expected. But that's what you're paying me for. The report is not a seller's "Must-Fix" list, it's just an impartial reporting of the home's condition giving you clear direction for what should be done about each problem. Each situation is different, and it's up to your and your real estate agent to decide how to proceed after an inspection.
Are There Limitations To The Inspection?
Yes, I can't see through walls or predict the future! If I could do either of those, I'd be in another line of work. Keep in mind that a home inspection lasts only a few hours, and it's not technically exhaustive. There is no way that anyone could find all the defects in a house in only a few hours.
The home inspection is not an appraisal or a check for compliance with building codes and it's not an evaluation for any biological or environmental hazards. See the inspection agreement for more information on the limitations of an inspection.
Do You Offer A Guarantee?
No. Something can look just fine today and still break tomorrow. If you want a home warranty they are available through other sources.
If you think you're going to get a meaningful guarantee from another home inspector then you need to read their fine print carefully. Most guarantees from home inspectors are only marketing gimmicks that are riddled with loopholes.
Will Cornerstone perform or manage any repair work?
No. That would be a direct conflict of interest.
How Do I Get Ready For The Inspection?
It's the seller's responsibility to get the house ready for the inspection. All utilities need to be turned on and all gas appliances need to be ready to run (pilot lights must be on). Access needs to be cleared to areas like attics, crawl spaces, electric panels, furnaces etc.
Are You Licensed?
Yes, Alabama requires all inspectors to be licensed and inspect to American Society of Home Inspectors standards.
What If I Have Questions Later?
Your understanding of your home is my highest priority. You can ask questions for as long as you own your home. There's no charge as long as I can answer by phone or e-mail without coming back out to the house.
