What is an ASHI® Home Inspection?

Why do I need a Home Inspection?

What does a Home Inspection include?

Do I need to be there during the Inspection?

How long will the Inspection take?

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?

Why can't I do the Inspection myself?

What if the Inspection uncovers problems?

Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?

What is an ASHI® Home Inspection? Back to top

A home inspection is a visual examination of the all the systems and physical structural elements of a home done by a Certifed Member of ASHI®.  Our emphasis is on identifying existing or potential adverse conditions that would affect a purchasers buying decision. We also provide recommendations on a course of action to remedy those conditions.  ASHI Members are professionals with verified knowledge, experience, and training backed up with nationally recognized standards and a strong code of ethics.   

Why do I need a Home Inspection? Back to top

A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house before you buy.  Our report will also advise you of what maintenance is recommended to keep your home in top condition. An ASHI® inspection from Hankey & Brown will give you a clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. If you are selling your home, a listing inspection will point out adverse conditions that might be uncovered later by the buyers inspector. Finding them early will allow you to address them before listing your home, making for a faster and smoother sale.

What does a Home Inspection include?   Back to top

Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of the homes heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structures. ASHI® Members also report items which are near the end of their service life.

Do I need to be there during the Inspection?   Back to top

No, you aren't required to be there for the inspection, but we recommend that you at least attend a briefing near the end of the inspection. Its a valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. You can ask questions.  The inspector will explain maintenance tips for specific areas. We feel you will be able to best understand the finished report if you review it with the inspector while at the house.

How long will the Inspection take?   Back to top

The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. For most homes, 3 to 4 hours is typical. Larger homes, or homes in poor condition may take longer.  Hankey & Brown will take the time necessary to do a thorough inspection.

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?   Back to top

Absolutely. A professional inspection of a new home is important. It is better to identify adverse conditions early, while they are still easy to correct. Its especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls are finished. As building professionals, we may find problem areas where the builder has taken shortcuts or not done good work.

Why can't I do the Inspection myself?   Back to top

Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still don't have the knowledge, training and experience of an ASHI® Home Inspector. We have inspected thousands of homes. We are not only familiar with all the systems of a home, and how they work and need to be maintained, but we also know what to look for to tell us that they are getting ready to fail. But beyond the technical expertise and experience a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector remains an impartial third party. If you are involved in buying or selling a house, its impossible for you to remain completely unemotional about the house, and this may cloud your judgment. The ASHI® inspector will provide an objective outside reporting of the building conditions.

What if the Inspection uncovers problems?   Back to top

Our report will tell you the condition of the house, including recommended repairs. No house will be perfect. It is up to you to decide how any adverse conditions found in the inspectio might affect your decision to purchase. If adverse conditions are found, discuss the conditions with your real estate agent and/or attorney to help determine a course of action. In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about adverse conditions, before you buy, gives you the opportunity to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions.

Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?   Back to top

No. The Code of Ethics of The American Society of Home Inspectors® (ASHI) prohibits us from doing repair work on properties we inspect. This eliminates any conflict of interest by the inspector. Hankey & Brown provides an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home.