A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical  structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Having  a home inspected is like giving it a physical checkup. If problems or  symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation.  

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

The purchase of a home is probably the largest single 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 before you buy, so  that you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards.  

Of course, a home inspection also points out the positive aspects of a  home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in  good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer  understanding of the property you are about to purchase.  

If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection may be used to  identify problems in the making and to learn preventive measures which  might avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your  home, you may wish to have an inspection prior to placing your home on  the market. This will give you a better understanding of conditions  which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector, and an opportunity to  make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.  

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically,  as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the  inspection fee may vary depending upon the size of the house, particular  features of the house, its age, and possible additional services, such  as septic, well, or radon testing. It is a good idea to check local  prices on your own.  

However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a  home inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The  knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the  lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector's  qualifications, including his experience, training, and professional  affiliations, should be the most important consideration 

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of  a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps  thousands, of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with  the many elements of home construction, their proper 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.  

Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely  objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may  affect their judgment. 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. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current  condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which  determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies local  code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a  house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what may  need repair or replacement.