What is An Inspection?
An inspection is a visual examination of the structure and systems of a building at the time of inspection. If you are considering buying a home, townhome, condo, mobile home or a commercial property it is wise to have it thoroughly inspected by a professional, impartial and experienced inspector before the final purchase.

What's Covered In An Inspection?
A complete full home inspection comprises a visual examination of the building from the top to bottom. The inspector will evaluate and report on the condition of the structure, foundation, roof, plumbing, heating system, central air-conditioning system, drainage system, visible insulation, windows, walls, doors and lot topography. Understand only those items that are visible and accessible by normal means are inspected and included in your report.

When Should I Request An Inspector?
The best time to consult with the inspector is right after you've made an offer on your intended purchase. Your real estate contract usually allows a grace period to have the property inspected. Ask your agent to include this inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection.

Why Do I Need An Inspection?
The purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the largest single investment you will ever make. You should and need to know what to expect, both indoor and outdoors in regards to needed and future repairs, safety issues and maintenance issues. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic roof leakage problem or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector will interpret these and other clues, then will present a professional opinion and make a recommendation. This will avoid any unpleasant surprises afterward. The inspector will also point out the positive aspects of a property, as well as pointing out any future maintenance needed to keep the property in good shape. After the inspection the inspector will explain all findings which will give you a clear understanding of the property and help you make a well informed decision about the property you are about to purchase.
As for the seller if you have owned your building for a period of time, an inspection can identify potential problems in the sale of your building and can recommend preventive measures which might avoid future expensive repairs.

Should I Attend The Inspection?
It is not necessary, but a wise good decision if you can. By following the inspector through the inspection, observing and asking questions, you will learn alot about the property and get some great tips on general maintenance information that will be of great value to you now and in the future after you move in.

What If The Report Reveals Problems?
If the inspector finds problems in the property it does not mean you shouldn't buy it, only that you will know in advance what type of repairs to anticipate. A seller may or not be willing to make repairs found. If your budget is tight, or if you wish not to become involved in future repair work, you may decide that this is not the property for you. Your choice.

Can a Building "Fail" The Inspection?
No. A professional inspection is simply an examination into the current condition (at the time of the inspection) of your prospective real estate purchase. It is not a Municipal Code inspection or an Appraisal. An inspector will not pass or fail a building, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items are in need of major or minor repairs or replacement, maintenance and/or safety issues..

Can I Inspect The Building Myself?
Yes but is that a good decision. Even the most experienced building or home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected hundreds and even thousands of homes and buildings in their career. A professional inspector is equally familiar with the critical elements of construction and with the proper installation, maintenance and inter-relationships of these elements. Consider--most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the property they want, and this may lead to a poor assessment.

Note: To become a Professional Home Inspector in Illinois takes a lot of schooling and hard work. You have to apply and pass a State of Illinois approved Home Inspectors pre-licensing course and pass the course. Then you have to apply to the State of Illinois to take the state test, and pass. Once you receive your state license, you must take State of Illinois approved continuing education classes (mim 12 credit hours) every license renewal period. Some inspectors get certified by a national association. We are Certified and a member in good standing of the Inter-national Association of Certified Home Inspectors (nachi.org). Requirements after passing the entrance exam (nachi.org) is to take a (mim) of 24 continuing education classes yearly, in order to retain your certification. Besides our schooling we have 30 years of Residential, Multi-family and Light Commercial experience. Verify our Certification.