Frequently Asked Questions around Building Inspections

http://www.ashi.org/customers/faq.asp Find Your Answers to Home Inspection Cost and Home Inspection Service Questions Frequently Asked Questions on Home Inspections Please select one of the following topics: What is a home inspection? What does a home inspection include? Why do I need a home inspection? How much will it cost? Why can't I do it myself? Can a house fail inspection? How do I find a home inspector? What is ASHI? Who belongs to ASHI? When do I call a home inspector? Do I have to be there? What if the report reveals problems? If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?     What is a home inspection? A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. Back to top What does a home inspection include? The standard home inspector's report will cover the condition of the home's heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components. The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report. Back to top Why do I need a home inspection? Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you'll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence. If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition. Back to top What will it cost? The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing. Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector's qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state's regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide. Back to top Why can't I do it myself? Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection. Back to top Can a house fail a home inspection? No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement. Back to top How do I find a home inspector? You can ask friends or business acquaintances to recommend a home inspector they have used. Or, you can use the Find An Inspector search tool for a list of home inspectors in your area who belong to the non-profit professional organization. To have a list mailed to you, call 1-800-743-ASHI (2744). Also, real estate agents and brokers are familiar with the service and may be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose. Whatever your referral source, you can be assured of your home inspector's commitment to professional standards and business ethics by choosing one who has membership in ASHI. Back to top What is ASHI? Since 1976, ASHI has worked to build consumer awareness of home inspection and to enhance the professionalism of its membership. The ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics serves as a performance guideline for home inspectors, and is universally recognized and accepted by many professional and governmental bodies. Back to top Who belongs to ASHI? ASHI is an organization of independent, professional home inspectors who are required to make a commitment, from the day they join as ASHI Associates, to conduct inspections in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, which prohibits engaging in conflict-of-interest activities that might compromise their objectivity. ASHI Associates work their way to ASHI Certified Inspector status as they meet rigorous requirements, including passing a comprehensive, written technical exam and performing a minimum of 250 professional, fee-paid home inspections conducted in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Mandatory continuing education helps the membership stay current with the latest in technology, materials and professional skills. Back to top When do I call a home inspector? Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated. Back to top Do I have to be there? While it's not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it. Back to top What if the report reveals problems? No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't mean you should or shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don't want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs. Back to top If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection? Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You'll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will have that information for future reference.

Rentals across NZ fail warrant of fitness

http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/home-property/10047615/Rentals-across-NZ-fail-warrant-of-fitness

More than 90 per cent of rental properties in a nationwide survey have failed a ''warrant of fitness'' (WOF) check.

About 140 rentals across Christchurch, Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington and Dunedin were given the once-over by home assessment experts earlier this year.

The rental housing WOF trial involved councils, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), the New Zealand Green Building Council and the University of Otago.

It aimed to test whether draft WOF checklists and methodologies were practical for landlords, assessors and tenants.

About 94 per cent of the 144 houses inspected did not pass at least one of the 31 checklist items, but the majority failed on only a handful.

The trial found 36 per cent would pass all of the draft WOF criteria with "just a few minor and inexpensive fixes", such as installing smoke alarms or adjusting hot-water temperatures.

The WOF looked at weather tightness, insulation, ventilation, lighting, heating, the condition of appliances and general building safety.

In the trial, 40 per cent of houses did not pass the water temperature check, 30 per cent did not have a working smoke alarm within three metres of bedrooms and 31 per cent lacked code-compliant handrails and balustrades.

The trial also found 37 per cent did not have a fixed form of heating and 38 per cent did not pass a security-stays check.

Christchurch City Council housing committee chair Glenn Livingstone said the trial made it clear that a rental housing WOF system would be useful to renters.

"It would give prospective tenants the ability to make quick decisions about whether they want to look more closely at a property," he said.

"They would be able to easily see whether a house is safe, healthy and energy-efficient."

Dr Julie Bennett of the University of Otago said the trial was well-received by landlords, tenants and the assessors.

"We are now going back to look at the checklist and criteria to make sure we have a robust and usable housing WOF for the rental market," she said.

 

 

Sarah Turner
New Zealand Operations Manager



Ph: 09 834 7936
Mob: 022 043 1226
Toll free: 0800 86 36 36

www.abuyerschoice.co.nz
sarah.turner@abuyerschoice.com

Client referrals are our greatest reward. If you know of anyone who can benefit from our building inspection services, please do not hesitate to let me or them know. I would appreciate the opportunity to assist.

 

FW: ABCHI TOP Award Winners Midwest Canada June 2014

View Online | Forward Share:

 

Martin Fiesel Regional Master Franchise Owner A Buyers Choice Home Inspections  1516 22A ST NW  Calgary, AB, T2N2N9 Canada 1 800 929 0189 1 587 899 3800 1 800 929 0189 Email Me Website Buying a Property? You'll want to ensure your investment is sound by executing a thorough, professional home inspection. Selling a Home? Instill greater buyer confidence by having an approved home inspection report in hand. A Buyer's Choice Home Inspection provides a complete range of home inspection services to help you buy and sell with complete confidence. Please call today to find out more! Franchises Available Worldwide  Contact: 1-877-377-8628 info@abuyerschoice.com www.abuyerschoice.com
	Congratulations June 2014 Midwest CanadaTop Award Winners!     Presidents Club! Rueben and Jeremy Meyer Still holding on to that top spot in the Midwest Region the Meyers continue to rock it.  Congratulation Gents on another fantastic month!   Presidents Club! Cliff Campbell A huge month in a small market. Cliff continues to dominate his market with the largest single market share in the MIdwest. Excellent communication and organizational skills keeps Cliff's clients coming back.  Great work Cliff!         Diamond Elite Judy Schueller Judy's team with John and Dan are taking over the market north of Edmonton. With Judy's marketing their business grows each month. Well done team!   Brent Podruzny Diamond A consistent performer, Brent continues to build on a fantastic 2014 proving that even an excellent performing franchise has room to grow. Nice work Brent.   Diamond Award            Craig Wagner Watch out for the quiet ones. Craig's calm, quiet demeanor instills confidence with his clients and they reciprocate with loyalty. A recipe for long term success. Great job Craig.     Diamond Award Glenda Black  A little work life balance for this team in June taking some time for family and still producing a solid month. These are the rewards for building a solid business. Good work team.       Gold Award                    Colin Dvorak The spring marketing is still paying off for Colin. Coupled wiht a long standing radio campaign Colin has built the ABCHI brand in his area and it continues to pay dividends.  Keep up the good work Colin.           Gold Award   Mark Mitchell Mark's community involvement keeps the ABCHI brand front and centre in his area. With solid marketing in the spring and his participation in hockey season starting in the fall. Mark's brand contines to grow in his area. Good job Mark     Silver Award Alan and Chris Morhun Still rocking in month three. This father and son team proves that the sytem works. Solid marketing efforts between inspections will keep this team on top. Great Efforts guys!!      Silver Award                             Troy Trudgeon  Troy has proven that you can get business from multiple sources with a fantastic web site, active involvment in the community as well as a good BNI group Troy covers all the angles and it pays off. Good work Troy!     Silver Award  Jennefer Colwell and Kory Kohuch Our ABCHI ambassadors to Saskatchewan continue to perform in Saskatoon while assisting in building the team in Saskatchewan. We should see some more of the Saskatchewan team that they helped build in 2014. Thanks team!       Bronze Award  Ken and Christian Kalk      Staying dry in Winnipeg this father and son team continues to promote the brand while bringing in leads for new franchisees. Could this be the first team in the Midwest to capitalize on the $5000.00 lead fee? Great teamwork guys!

 

---

For more information or have clients interested in a Home Inspection, please call me at 1 800 929 0189.

A Buyer's Choice Home Inspections,April 2014

You received this email because you subscribed as sarah.turner@abuyerschoice.com. To ensure delivery, please add martin.fiesel@abuyerschoice.com to your address book. A Buyers Choice Home Inspections - 1516 22A ST NW Calgary, AB T2N2N9 To remove your address from this list, click to Unsubscribe.     Forward to a friend.

 

FW: ABCHI Top Award Winners New Zealand May 2014

View Online | Forward Share:

 

Sarah Turner   Operations Manager  New Zealand 022 043 1226 A Buyer's Choice Home Inspections  New Zealand (National House Inspection Company Ltd)       0800 86 36 36  09 834 7936     info@abuyerschoice.co.nz  www.abuyerschoice.co.nz              Franchises Available Worldwide  Contact: 1-877-377-8628 info@abuyerschoice.com www.abuyerschoice.com	Congratulations Top Award Winners! Great work for June 2014       SILVER AWARD Gerard Naude Albany & Surrounding Areas Congrats Gerard - Keep up the great work!!   BRONZE AWARD Duane Turner  Waitakere & Surrounding Areas    Fantastic effort and hopefully the first of many more awards.   BRONZE AWARD Rob Beagle Te Atatu & Surrounding Areas  Well done Rob. Thank you for all your hard work. Buying a Property? You'll want to ensure your investment is sound by executing a thorough, professional home inspection. Selling a Home? Instill greater buyer confidence by having an approved home inspection report in hand. A Buyer's Choice Home Inspection provides a complete range of home inspection services to help you buy and sell with complete confidence. Please call today to find out more!
	For more information or have clients interested in a Home Inspection, please call us at 0800 86 36 36. A Buyer's Choice Home Inspections, May 2014

To remove your address from this list, click to Unsubscribe.     Forward to a friend.

 

FW: ABCHI TOP Award Winners Midwest Canada April 2014

 

View Online | Forward Share:

 

Martin Fiesel Regional Master Franchise Owner A Buyers Choice Home Inspections 49 Brander Ave Langdon, AB, T0J1X2 Canada 1 800 929 0189 1 587 899 3800 1 800 929 0189 Email Me Website Buying a Property? You'll want to ensure your investment is sound by executing a thorough, professional home inspection. Selling a Home? Instill greater buyer confidence by having an approved home inspection report in hand. A Buyer's Choice Home Inspection provides a complete range of home inspection services to help you buy and sell with complete confidence. Please call today to find out more! Franchises Available Worldwide  Contact: 1-877-377-8628 info@abuyerschoice.com www.abuyerschoice.com
	Congratulations April 2014 Midwest CanadaTop Award Winners!     Presidents Club! Rueben and Jeremy Meyer The first franchise in the Midwest to hit the top designation of Presidents Club! This team continues to lead the way in Canada with excellent service the ABCHI way! Congratulation Gents!   Diamond Award Brent Podruzny Brent is on track for his best year yet with a solid start to 2014. In a mature franchise Brent has proven that there is still room to grow. As the team lead in Northern Alberta Brent also assists with the growth of his colleagues business which we all appreciate. Great work Brent!         Diamond Award Craig Wagner Craig started off 2014 with a plan to crank up some marketing and gain more market share and he has done just that. Amazing what you can accomplish if you put your mind to it. Well done Craig!   Diamond Award Cliff Campbell Cliff will be one of the first franchisees on the Midwest Team to have his masters certificate. With well over 1000 inpections under his belt Cliff has decided to share his knowledge and experience to assist others in their journey. Not sure where he finds the time. Thanks Cliff, great teamwork!   Platinum Award Glenda Black Shown in this picture recieving their rookie franchise of the year award for 2013 Glenda and Dave continue to grow their business each month through consistent innovative marketing. Soon to be the next radio celeb in Cochrane AB we can expect to see this team continue to grow. Excellent effort Glenda and Dave!     Platinum Award Judy Schueller  Judy's team with John and Dan are taking over the market north of Edmonton. With a consistent marketing effort and a commitment to quality Judy is making it easy for her partners to choose A Buyers Choice Home Inspections. NIce work Judy!       Gold Award Colin Dvorak  With less than $200.00 from Platinum Colin had one of his biggest months ever in April. Making the extra effort to join in the local Chamber events is paying off for Colin in Stony Plain/Spruce Grove. Keep up the good work Colin!           SilverAward   Mark Mitchell Mark started 2014 with a goal to substantially increase his franchise. Mark went back to the basics with open houses, realtor visits and working his tellem campaigns just as he was taught in boot camp. Mark is starting to realize his goal while mentoring some new folks and helping to build the Midwest team. Awesome start to 2014 Mark!     Silver Award Troy Trudgeon Consistency is part of Troy's brand. Even struggling a bit with a repaired limb Troy powered through to continue to provide his customers excellent service. Troy's community involvement along with his participation in his BNI group support his business well. Great effort Troy!     Bronze Award Kory Kohuch & Jennifer Colwell Things are starting to heat up in Saskatchewan after a long cold spring.  This team was instrumental in assisting to bring on a partner to the north that we will be seeing shortly in the top awards with this teams mentorship.   Great Teamwork!     Bronze Award  Ken and Christian Kalk After a long thaw in Manitoba this team is starting to heat it up. April was the start of a rush that seems to be gaining momentum in May. Expect to see this team climbing the charts in the coming months. Good work Guys!       Bronze Award   Alan and Chris Morhun We have some new comers to the   Midwest top awards and you can expect to see much more of this team. April was their first full month and they hit the top awards. With Jeremy and Reuben as their mentors this team is bound for success. One of the most impresstive attributes to this team is how they follow the plan. They came out of bootcamp and worked the marketing plan that they learned to the letter and proved that if you do the activity the results will follow Impressive first month guys!!

 

---

For more information or have clients interested in a Home Inspection, please call me at 1 800 929 0189.

A Buyer's Choice Home Inspections,April 2014

You received this email because you subscribed as sarah.turner@abuyerschoice.com. To ensure delivery, please add martin.fiesel@abuyerschoice.com to your address book. A Buyers Choice Home Inspections - 49 Brander Ave Langdon, AB T0J1X2 To remove your address from this list, click to Unsubscribe.     Forward to a friend.