FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a home inspection?

Home Inspection: The process by which a Home Inspector observes and provides, pursuant to the sale and transfer of a residential building, a written evaluation of the following readily accessible components of a residential building: heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical systems, structural components, foundation, roof, masonry structure, exterior and interior components and any other related residential housing components.

*Source: 266 CMR, Section 2.01- Definitions: Massachusetts BOARD OF REGISTRATION OF HOME INSPECTORS

**New Hampshire defines a home inspection similarly to the state of Massachusetts

HOW LONG Does A HOME INSPECTION TAKE?

An average home inspection for a standard 2500 square foot single-family home is typically between 2.5 - 3 hours. Anticipate additional time for larger homes, multi-families, antique structures and unattached outbuildings (garages, sheds, barns, etc.). Conversely, smaller homes and condominiums may be quicker, however a minimum expectation, even for a smaller condominium, should be set at 2 hours.  

Do I need to take notes?

Although not necessary, many home buyers carry a notebook and pen. In our experience however, the majority of buyers find that staying close to the inspector, asking questions and listening carefully tends to provide a better understanding of the overall inspection. Remember, the report will be a detailed documentation of the home systems. It is our job to “do the writing”, but feel free to take along any writing materials that you wish.

WHO SHOULD BE PRESENT?

In simpler times (pre-COVID), home inspections were always a very welcoming occasion. Parents, children, aunts/uncles, friends, etc., are great to see and usually an excellent support system. Due to the pandemic however, state and local governments have put in place strict guidelines to ensure the health of our communities. Out of respect for all parties (buyers, sellers, and agents) Square Feet follows the recommendations from local health and governmental officials.   

We ask, for the time being, that those attending the inspection be limited to the following: 2 clients, 1 client agent and 1 listing agent (max. of 4 persons plus inspector). Further, we do require for masks to be worn at all times when indoors during the inspection. We hope to lift these guidelines in the near future as we look forward to seeing all your smiling faces soon! We appreciate your understanding during these unusual times.

WHAT GETS INSPECTED?

The list of inspected components is very expansive. For a more in-depth understanding of the scope of a home inspection, we urge you to view the Standards of Practice for Massachusetts here and for the SoP for New Hampshire here. Currently, Maine does not have home inspection regulations in place nor a licensing requirement for home inspectors. When inspecting in Maine, Square Feet Home Inspections follows the New Hampshire guidelines.

For a quick overview (this is NOT nearly a complete list), you can expect an extensive inspection of the following areas:

Exteriors              
Roof Surface, Siding/Trim, Decks, Walkways, Driveways, Chimneys, etc.

Interiors               
Windows, Doors, Walls, Floors, Ceilings, Kitchens, Baths, etc.

Basements          
Foundations, Crawls, Substructure, Signs of Water & Wood Destroying Insects, etc.

Attics                     
Insulation, Ventilation, Roof Structure, Discoloration/Signs of Water, etc.

Plumbing             
Water Main, Supply Lines/Pipes, Water Heaters, Drain Lines, etc.

Heat/Cooling     
Boilers, Furnaces, A/C, Condensers, Heat Pipes, Ducts, Oil Tanks, etc.               

Electrical             
Service Entry, Wiring, Main Panels, Sub Panels, Outlets, GFCIs, etc.

Garages                
Garage Doors, Floors, Foundations, Door Openers, Fire Hazards, etc.

*Please note that there are home/property components that do not fall under the guidelines of either the MA or NH home inspection requirements. These items are usually not accessible and/or not imperative to the overall functioning of a home. With components, it is advised to consult the seller regarding the maintenance history of given items as well as consulting a specialist in the given field. 

Common systems that are NOT inspected include, but not limited to: Pools, Hot Tubs, Wells, Irrigation, Fire Suppression, Septic System, Lead Paint, etc.