Home Inspection Quiz

A home inspection is a visual assessment of the structure's general condition. It is by no means an examination of every aspect of a residence. Don't expect a home inspection to assess the home's value.

It's impossible for a home to fail an inspection, just like it's impossible for you to fail an annual physical. The inspection is simply a way to receive professional feedback on problems.

A certified home inspector is your best bet. Inspectors know construction, while homeowners and real estate agents don't have the same caliber of training or knowledge in this area. Consult the experts!

Make sure you hire the right person for the job! Ask your network of personal and professional contacts who understand real estate for recommendations, and ask them to share their experience working with someone you're considering hiring.

Do your due diligence and look into an inspector's qualifications. Start with whether he or she meets your state's qualifications, which always trumps experience and professional affiliations.

A standard home inspection report generally covers a number of things, such as all structural elements and systems like heating and cooling, electrical and interior plumbing. Inspectors often charge more to check for things like mold or diseases.

An inspector's sole role is to provide you with information so you can make informed decisions. He or she will not tell you if you should buy or sell your home.

Just because a home has problems doesn't mean you shouldn't buy it; after all, no structure is perfect. Decide by factoring in whether you can afford the time and money necessary to make the repairs.

A number of reputable professional organizations sound the same. The American Society of Certified Home Inspectors does not exist, but it sounds a lot like the reputable National Association of Certified Home Inspectors.

An inspector will not survey inaccessible areas around a home or do any sort of invasive testing. The report is strictly about the condition of the house, not its value or whether it would be a good investment.