FAQs

Purchasing a home is one of the most important investments a person can make. It is also one of the scariest investments due to all of the unknowns. Here are the answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) we get here at Chosen Home Inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a non-invasive and visual examination of the home’s major systems. When problems or symptoms of problems are found, the inspector will recommend further evaluation and/or repairs using a qualified contractor or specialist.

Want more information? Click here to learn more about home inspections from Investopedia.

How do I choose a Home Inspector?

Like any industry, there are good and bad Home Inspectors. Some Inspectors lack the education, experience, are not licensed, and only do the minimum requirements established by the NC Home Inspector Licensure Board Standards of Practice. As an example of minimum requirements, Inspectors are not required to inspect all electrical outlets, windows, and doors.

At Chosen Home Inspections, our Inspectors go beyond the minimum by inspecting systems and components that are accessible and visible. It's important for us to know that your inspection is thorough as our goal is to exceed your expectations.

Having PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE as a Home Inspector is essential in the home inspection business. Having a license in other fields such as building or contracting doesn't necessarily mean he or she knows how and what to look for as a Home Inspector.

Did we convince you that you need us? Schedule your appointment here: Schedule Online with Chosen Home Inspections (inspectionsupport.com)

What cities do you service?

We service towns and cities all over the triangle such as:

  • Angier
  • Apex
  • Benson
  • Cary
  • Chapel Hill
  • Clayton
  • Durham
  • Fuquay-Varina
  • Garner
  • Holly Springs
  • Knightdale
  • Louisburg
  • Morrisville
  • New Hill
  • Pine Level
  • Raleigh
  • Rolesville
  • Selma
  • Smithfield
  • Wake Forest
  • Wendell
  • Willow Springs
  • Youngsville
  • Zebulon

Don't see your town or city listed? Contact us to see if we will come to your property too!

What type of properties do you inspect?

Chosen Home Inspections will inspect practically any property type. We inspect residential, commercial, single and multi-family homes, condos, townhouses, duplexes and more.

Don't see your property type mentioned? Contact us to ask if we inspect your property type!

Can a home fail an inspection?

No. There is no 'pass or fail' during an inspection. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance to local codes and standards. The Home Inspector will describe the physical condition of the home and indicate what may need repair or replacement.

See a sample report here: Sample Report - Chosen Home Inspections, Inc.

When do I get the report?

We will email the report within 24 hours of the inspection. If you don't have an email address, we will either deliver or mail the report to you. If you are present at the inspection, we will discuss the findings at the completion of the inspection.

See a sample report here: Sample Report - Chosen Home Inspections, Inc.

What kind of report can I expect?
Your report will be computer automated and it will come with digital pictures under the discrepancies to help illustrate problems. Your report will be detailed yet easy to read. See Sample Report
When and how do I schedule an inspection?

You can contact us 7 days a week and also have the ability to request your inspection online through our website. We do not have company set times to perform your inspection and our Inspectors perform a maximum of two inspections a day. This allows sufficient time doing the inspection and spending time with you, our client. Let us know what time is good for you and we will accommodate you the best way we can.

What will the inspection cost?

Property evaluation fees are based on the age, square footage, and location of the home or building. Fees for ancillary services (radon, termite inspections, etc.) normally have standard prices, but can vary slightly depending on calculations used to determine property evaluation fees.

Don’t let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have an inspection or in the selection process of an inspection company or Inspector. The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced Inspector or company is not necessarily a bargain or the right choice. Pay attention to what the Inspector or company can provide in terms of value, qualifications, experience, and professional affiliations.

Need more information? Read this article on Investopedia: What Is a Home Inspection Contingency and Why Is It Important? (investopedia.com)

Are there any cancellation and/or re-scheduling fees?

No. We understand an inspection can cancel and/or be re-scheduled for various reasons with some being outside the client’s control. If an inspection has been prepaid and the inspection cancels for any reason before the inspection takes place, a full refund will be granted.

What forms of payment do you accept and when is payment due?

We accept cash, check, or credit card, and payment can be made before or at the time of the inspection.

Credit cards we accept: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express

How long will the inspection last?

We will dedicate the time to complete a thorough inspection regardless of how long it takes. Please note that inspections take a minimum of 2 hours though. Time is based on the size, age, and condition of the home.

Should I be present during the inspection?

We know your time is valuable so we allow the client to decide. Based on the time it takes for us to inspect a home, we do recommend that you be present towards the end of the inspection so we can discuss any issues with you. If you would like to be there for the entire inspection or you are unable to attend, that will be okay too. Please let your Inspector know what your plans are to ensure scheduling and communications are appropriate.

Is a home inspection a guarantee or warranty?

No. Unfortunately, any system or component can fail at any time after a home inspection is performed. We always welcome our clients to contact us if there is ever an issue so we can help provide assistance.

Why can't I have someone in my family who is very handy or a contractor, inspect my home or a new home I'm buying?
Although the person you are considering to do your inspection may be very skilled, this is one of the biggest mistakes some potential new homeowners or owners make. The home inspection business is a unique profession like no other and requires extensive training and experience. Home Inspectors often see issues that others may not see or others may not think is a problem or concern.
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

Yes. As a buyer, seller, or even a long-term owner, you can now have confidence about the condition of the property. From the inspection, you will have learned many things about your home, and will want to keep that information for future reference.

Still unconvinced? This blog from Homes.com may help: Reasons You Need to Get a Home Inspection – Home Sweet Homes

Can I call you after the inspection if I have questions?

Absolutely! You can contact us whenever you like. We are always here to help you anyway we can!

What is TMLS?

TMLS stands for Triangle Multiple Listing Services. For more information on TMLS click here.

Are you a TMLS Subscriber?
Yes, and we will schedule all inspections through showing time services. Please note, however, Real Estate Professionals are still required to attend the inspection if their client is attending. This is a requirement through the TMLS. If a Real Estate Professional is unable to attend the inspection, please let us know as we can try to assist in this process. Learn More