CERTIFIED HOME INSPECTIONS FOR SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

 A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical visible structure and systems of a home. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation. The inspector may also suggest preventative maintenance as well. The inspection covers everything from the roof to the crawlspace. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are considering purchasing.

The purchase of a home is probably the largest single financial investment you will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs and preventative maintenance before you buy so that you can minimize any unexpected problems, repairs, and expenses in the future.

If you are planning to sell your home, you may wish to have an inspection prior to putting your home on the market. This will give you a better understanding of any conditions which may be discovered by the buyer’s inspector, and give you an opportunity to repair these items thus increasing the marketability of your house.

The standard home inspector’s report will review the condition of the home’s heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting and if present), visible and accessible plumbing and electrical systems; the visible/accessible roof, the visible/accessible attic, any visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure.

The inspection fee for a standard single-family home varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. The inspection fee may vary depending upon the size of the house,  its age, particular features of the house, and possible additional services. It is a good idea to check local prices on your own, and to discuss pricing with Sierra Certified Home Inspections.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether to have a home inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration and often may cost a bit more. 

The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. 

An earthquake can cause damage to a home that might not be easily noticed without the trained eye of a home inspection professional. The quake can crack your home's foundation, or it can rupture plumbing lines or gas lines. Whether you're buying or selling a home after an earthquake, or you just want peace of mind that your house is safe after an earthquake, you can count on Sierra Certified to provide a thorough and affordable review of the key components of your home to keep you safe and sound.

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a trained, certified, and experienced  home inspector who has inspected a countless number of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, proper appliance installation, and maintenance. He or she understands how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail.

For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

No. This is not a pass-fail test.  A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, nor is it a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical visible condition and indicate what may need repair or replacement.

The home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

A “walk and talk” during the actual inspection is discouraged as an inspector requires most of their senses to conduct a thorough inspection: sight, hearing, feel, touch, and smell. Any distractions may negatively affect the inspection process. 

However, it is recommended to be present for a post-inspection review. You can ask questions directly, and you will learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain it. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you’ve spoken directly with the inspector and have gone over the property through the inspector’s eyes.

There is no such thing as a perfect house. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If major problems are found, you can maybe negotiate with the seller. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to take on future repair work, this information will be extremely useful to you.

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase fully informed and confident. You will have learned many things from the inspector’s report as to the condition of the property and all of its equipment and systems, and you will want to keep that information for future reference.

Sierra Certified Home Inspections offers high-quality home inspections for residential properties in the Cities of South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, Truckee, Markleeville, Strawberry, Pollock PInes, and Placerville. I inspect in ALL of El Dorado, Placer, Alpine, and Nevada counties.