Home Inspections – 1 Year Warranty FAQ

Discovering a qualified home inspector involves exploring various avenues:

1. Consult your real estate agent: Seek recommendations from your real estate agent, who likely has insights into 2-3 inspectors with whom they've had positive experiences. Investigate these recommendations thoroughly.
2. Rely on word of mouth: A reliable approach is to gather information through word of mouth. Speak to family, friends, or neighbors about their encounters with home inspectors they've hired.
3. Review the list of certified inspectors in ND: Access the list of certified and insured inspectors in North Dakota. This provides assurance regarding their professional qualifications and reliability.
4. Visit their website: A company's website serves as its virtual storefront. Explore different websites to gauge which one leaves a positive impression on you.
5. Conduct interviews over the phone: Reach out to a couple of inspectors and conduct brief interviews. Inquire about their background, experience, willingness to inspect roof, attic, and crawlspace, and their approach to HVAC system testing.
6. Avoid price shopping: Recognize that investing in a home is a significant financial commitment. Rather than seeking the cheapest option, prioritize quality. Some inspectors may offer lower rates for specific reasons, but it's crucial to prioritize the value of the inspection over saving a small amount of money on a substantial investment.

Yes, attending the home inspection is highly recommended. Here are several reasons why being present during the home inspection is valuable:

1. Immediate Understanding:
   • Being present allows you to gain immediate insights into the condition of the property. The inspector can point out findings, explain the significance of issues, and answer any questions you may have.
2. Visual Confirmation:
   • By being on-site, you can visually confirm the issues identified in the inspection report. This firsthand experience helps you better understand the scope and severity of any problem.
3. Ask Questions:
   • Attending the inspection gives you the opportunity to ask questions about the property's systems, maintenance needs, and any potential concerns. The inspector can provide valuable information about the home.
4. Learn About Systems and Maintenance:
   • The inspector can educate you about the various systems in the home, including heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems. You'll also receive tips on maintenance and how to care for these systems.
5. Clarify Inspection Findings:
   • If the inspector identifies issues during the inspection, you can seek clarification immediately. This real-time communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures a clear understanding of the inspection findings.
6. Prioritize Repairs:
   • Being present allows you to discuss the severity of issues with the inspector. This information is crucial for prioritizing repairs and deciding which issues need immediate attention and which can be addressed over time.
7. Explore the Property:
   • While the inspector is focused on the technical aspects, you can use this time to explore the property. Take note of storage spaces, utility locations, and other practical considerations that may not be evident in the inspection report.
8. Meet the Inspector:
   • Building a rapport with the inspector is valuable. Meeting them in person and engaging in discussions fosters a collaborative relationship, and you can continue to communicate with them if you have questions after the inspection.
9. Negotiation Leverage:
   • If the inspection reveals significant issues, being present gives you negotiation leverage. You can discuss the findings with the seller and negotiate repairs or adjustments to the purchase price.
10. Peace of Mind:
    • Attending the inspection provides peace of mind. You'll have a firsthand understanding of the property's condition, and it empowers you to make informed decisions about the purchase.

Before the inspection, coordinate with your real estate agent and the inspector to schedule a convenient time for your attendance. Remember that while being present is beneficial, it's also essential to allow the inspector to concentrate on their work to ensure a thorough evaluation of the property.

The duration of a warranty inspection can vary based on several factors, including the size and complexity of the home, its age, and the thoroughness of the inspector. On average, a standard home inspection for a typical single-family home can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.

Here are some factors that can influence the length of a home inspection:

1. Size of the Property:
   • Larger homes typically take longer to inspect than smaller ones. The inspector needs to examine more rooms, systems, and components.
2. Condition of the Property:
   • The overall condition of the property can impact the inspection time. If the home is well-maintained, with no significant issues, the inspection may be quicker. However, if there are visible problems or concerns, the inspector may spend more time assessing those areas.
3. Accessibility:
   • Easy accessibility to all areas of the home, including the attic, crawl spaces, and utility areas, can speed up the inspection process. If certain areas are difficult to access, it may take longer.
4. Age of the Home:
   • Older homes often require more time for inspection because they may have unique features, outdated systems, or hidden issues that need closer attention.
5. Additional Services:
   • If you've requested additional services such as radon testing, mold inspection, or termite inspection, the overall time for the inspection will be longer.
6. Inspector's Working Style:
   • The efficiency and thoroughness of the inspector also play a role. Some inspectors work methodically, ensuring a detailed examination of each area, while others may move more quickly.

It's important to note that the time spent on the inspection is not necessarily an indicator of the quality of the inspection. A thorough and comprehensive inspection is more important than a quick one. Many inspectors also encourage the homebuyer to accompany them during the inspection, providing an opportunity for questions and explanations.

Before the inspection, you can ask the inspector for an estimated duration based on the specifics of the property. Keep in mind that the goal is to provide a detailed and accurate assessment of the home's condition.

Preparing for a builder's warranty inspection involves taking proactive steps to ensure that the inspector can assess the property thoroughly. Here's a checklist to help you prepare for a builder's warranty inspection:

1. Gather Documentation:
   • Collect all relevant documentation related to the construction and warranty, including the original building plans, permits, and warranty information provided by the builder.
2. Compile a List of Concerns:
   • Note any concerns or issues you've observed during your time in the home. This includes cosmetic issues, structural concerns, or any other items covered under the builder's warranty.
3. Review the Warranty Coverage:
   • Familiarize yourself with the terms and coverage of the builder's warranty. Understand what is included and excluded, as this will help you communicate effectively with the inspector.
4. Schedule the Inspection Before the Warranty Expires:
   • Ensure that you schedule the warranty inspection well before the expiration of the builder's warranty. This allows sufficient time for any necessary repairs to be addressed under the warranty.
5. Coordinate with the Builder:
   • Inform the builder of your intention to have a warranty inspection and coordinate with them to ensure access to the property. Builders often appreciate the opportunity to address issues during the warranty period.
6. Compile a List of Upgrades or Modifications:
   • If you've made any upgrades or modifications to the home since the original construction, make a list of these changes. Some may be covered under the warranty, while others may not.
7. Clear Access to Areas:
   • Ensure that the inspector has clear access to all areas of the home, including attics, crawl spaces, and utility areas. Move any obstacles that may hinder the inspection process.
8. Make a List of Questions:
   • Prepare a list of questions or concerns you'd like to discuss with the inspector during the inspection. This ensures that you cover all important points related to the property.
9. Document Cosmetic Issues:
   • Cosmetic issues are often covered for a shorter duration under the warranty. Document any cosmetic concerns you want the inspector to review, such as paint, finishes, or other aesthetic elements.
10. Check for Recurring Issues:
    • If you've had previous issues that were addressed by the builder, check to ensure that these problems have been resolved and do not recur.
11. Gather Maintenance Records:
    • Provide records of routine maintenance and any repairs or maintenance you've undertaken since moving in. This helps the inspector understand how well the property has been maintained.
12. Plan to Attend the Inspection:
    • Whenever possible, plan to attend the warranty inspection. This allows you to point out specific concerns, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of the inspector's findings.

By taking these steps, you contribute to a smoother and more effective warranty inspection process. Communicate openly with the builder and the inspector and address any issues promptly to make the most of your builder's warranty coverage.

The specific repairs that a builder is required to address after a warranty inspection depend on the terms outlined in the builder's warranty agreement. Builder's warranties typically have specific coverage periods and may include different terms for various components of the home. Here are common considerations regarding repairs after a warranty inspection.

1. Defects Covered by the Warranty:
   • Builders are generally responsible for addressing defects or issues that fall within the coverage of the warranty. This often includes defects in workmanship and materials.
2. Structural Issues:
   • Builders are typically obligated to repair structural issues that arise during the warranty period. This could include problems with the foundation, load-bearing walls, or other key structural components.
3. Systems and Components:
   • Repairs may be required for defects in major systems such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. This could include fixing faulty wiring, addressing plumbing leaks, or resolving heating and cooling system malfunctions.
4. Appliances and Fixtures:
   • If the builder provided appliances and fixtures as part of the home, they may be required to repair or replace them if they are found to be defective or malfunctioning.
5. Roofing Issues:
   • Builders are often responsible for repairing or replacing roofing materials if defects are discovered during the warranty period. This may include leaks or problems with the installation.
6. Exterior Finishes:
   • Repairs to exterior finishes, such as siding or stucco, may be required if defects are identified during the warranty inspection.
7. Windows and Doors:
   • If windows or doors are found to be improperly installed, not functioning correctly, or have defects, the builder may be required to repair or replace them.
8. Workmanship Defects:
   • Builders are generally responsible for correcting defects in workmanship that affect the quality and integrity of the construction.
     It's important for homeowners to carefully review the terms of their builder's warranty to understand the specific coverage and the process for requesting repairs. Some warranties may outline a specific procedure for reporting issues, and builders typically have a reasonable amount of time to address and remedy the identified problems.

If there are disputes or disagreements regarding the necessary repairs, homeowners may need to follow the dispute resolution process outlined in the warranty agreement. In some cases, legal assistance may be sought if a resolution cannot be reached through negotiation.

The builder's warranty typically concludes one year (or occasionally two years) from the date of the initial closing. The duration varies among builders, with a prevalent industry standard of a one-year warranty.

The spectrum of issues is diverse as each residence presents unique challenges. Examples include improperly installed roofs, deficient attic insulation, foundation cracks, moisture intrusion, substandard workmanship, malfunctioning HVAC systems, mold, electrical problems, landscaping issues, and operational deficiencies in windows and doors.

Homeowners have the option to compile a detailed list of items requiring attention and submit it to the builder. Alternatively, the entire inspection report can be submitted for comprehensive review.

The builder's response varies, with acknowledgment of liability differing among builders. While some readily accept responsibility, others may contest certain repair requests. Disputes occasionally escalate to legal proceedings, although many instances are resolved through negotiation between the builder and homeowner.

Nordic Inspections offers a repair verification inspection at an additional cost. Prior to this inspection, homeowners submit a comprehensive list of requested repairs. Nordic Inspections meticulously reviews the list to ensure all repairs are completed to a professional standard. It is not uncommon for repairs to be inadequately or incompletely addressed without a thorough follow-up inspection.