What is a home inspection?
Who can inspect a home?
Why should I have a home inspected?
What does a home inspection include?
What if the Inspector finds something wrong?
When should I call a home inspector?
Should I be present during the inspection?


What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual evaluation of the physical structure and major systems of a home by a qualified and impartial home inspector.

Who can inspect a home?
In Illinois, before 2003, there were no licensing requirements for home inspectors. If any inspection was performed, it was usually dad or Uncle Joe who came with you when looking at a particular house. Today, Illinois and most states require that home inspections be performed by competent licensed inspectors.

Why should I have a home inspected?
Buying a home is one of the most emotional and stressful times in your life. During times like these, it's easy to look at situations differently than you ordinarily would. A home inspector won't be swayed by emotions while determining the condition of the house. Having a professional and impartial inspection of a home not only provides you with important facts about the condition of the home, it also takes away some of the stress associated with the decisions you've made and need to make.

What does a home inspection include?
A home inspection consists of the inspection of the physical structure and major systems of a home. These include:
• Foundation
• Roof
• Doors and Windows
• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Heating and Air Conditioning

What if the inspector finds something wrong?
Take a deep breath! - It's not the end of the world! - No house is perfect!
While most houses have at least minor defects, keep in mind all problems have a solution. If there is something wrong with any of the major systems of the home or if any of them are out of date or near the end of their useful life, it may or may not be expensive to correct. This doesn't mean you should or should not buy the house. By having a home inspected, you gain the benefit of reviewing a full inspection report which affords you the opportunity to discuss any potential or existing problems with your realtor and lawyer. They can advise you on the best course of action, if any is needed.

When should I call a home inspector?
In a typical real estate contract, there is a clause which gives the home buyer the option of obtaining a home inspection on the home being bought. The time frame to have a home inspection completed is usually 7-10 work days. You should call a home inspector to schedule for a home inspection immediately after signing a contract for purchase of a house. Your realtor can advise you on how to find a competent home inspector.

Should I be present during the inspection?
While not required, if you are present during the inspection the inspector can show you first hand any problems or maintenance issues the inspector encounters. The inspector can also advise you on the maintenance and care of various components of the house. This is your chance to get a good, close-up, look at the house in the presence of a professional inspector. One note to remember is that the inspector has a job to do and will need your undivided attention at times during the inspection. The inspection is probably not the best time to invite family and friends over to see your soon to be new house.

Pro-Techt Home Inspection Services offers inspection services as well as radon testing and mold testing. If you have questions about our services, please do not hesitate to call! If you prefer to use email, use the form on the "contact us" page. It's that simple!