A home inspection is a professional, objective, visual examination of the condition of a home, on the day and at the time that the home was inspected.

Homebuyers view inspections as a way to gain valuable information about one of the biggest purchases of their lifetime. It helps them to determine whether there are any major defects or system inadequacies at the time of the inspection.

The home inspection is performed after the seller has accepted your offer, conditional upon a satisfactory home inspection. The inspection normally is conducted within 10 days of the seller accepting your offer.  As the homebuyer, you are encouraged to attend the inspection, so that you can see firsthand the workings of the home. It also represents an excellent opportunity for you to ask questions about the home or to discuss potential changes with the inspector.

Home inspections should also highlight the positive aspects of a home. In fact, many of the home inspector’s observations or recommendations help to dispel home purchaser anxieties, and provide useful repair and maintenance suggestions.

The home inspector’s service to the purchaser is primarily one of education. The goal of the inspector is to provide the purchaser with a better understanding of the physical condition of the home, at the time of the inspection, in order that they can make a well-informed decision. It is also the inspector’s role to keep his findings in perspective for the buyer. After the inspection is completed, a written report is prepared for you, the homebuyer, documenting the results of the inspection. At which time, you should discuss with your Realtor if you willing to move forward with the purchase, request the seller conduct repairs or resend your offer to purchase and continue your home search.

The home inspection should not be confused with an appraisal, a municipal code inspection, an environmental audit, or a homeowner’s warranty.

The Washington Department of Licensing (DoL) regulates all home inspectors in Washington. Each inspector is obligated to meet the minimum standards of practice for an inspection. A complete home inspection will cover all of the major systems of a house, including structure, exterior, roofing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing and interior.

Pierce County Home Inspectors:

Safety First, LLC
Bruce Shannon 253-874-5221
hare381@comcast.com

The Brit Inspections
Kevin Kierans 253-224-0460
Kevin@thebritinspections.com

Or click here to find more home inspectors in the Western Washington.