As previously mentioned, the primary goal of a home inspection is to assess the current condition of the property, and to identify any issues or deficiencies. At the same time, the inspector will also point out the strengths and advantages of home, striving to provide the client with a comprehensive, objective, fair, and accurate understanding of the property. In addition, clients often gain a great deal of technical information about the home, learn maintenance knowledge, and receive hand-on guidance on operating various systems and components.

In this regard, the quality of service provided by different inspectors or home inspection companies varies as there is no unified standard. This is an important factor for clients to consider when selecting a home inspector. Specifically, I try to provide clients with the following information:

• The approximate construction year of the home;
• The age of the roofing material, furnace, air conditioner, and water heater, along with the likelihood that they will need to be replaced in the coming years;
• The size of the electrical service (60A/100A/200A); whether an upgrade is needed; the panel type; and the wiring type;
• The approximate age of doors and windows, and whether they have been replaced;
• The locations and operation of the main electrical, water, and gas shut-off switches/values;
• Operation of thermostat;
• The locations and operation of power switches for furnace, air conditioner, and water heater;
• Maintenance of humidifiers and air filters;
• Operation and maintenance of water heater;
• Winterizing procedure of outdoor hose bib;
• Other home maintenance tips, along with targeted improvement suggestions and necessary precautious measures.

In summary, clients should take full advantage of this valuable opportunity to ask questions - whatever I know, I will share without reservation.

This article was originally published in "Real Estate Weekly", Issue #35, September 09, 2005.