Question 1

What is a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

A home inspection is a limited, visual, non-invasive evaluation of a property's readily accessible systems and components. This typically includes the structure, roof, exterior, electrical system, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, attic and insulation, interiors, installed fixtures, and other accessible components.A home inspection is not a warranty, guarantee, code-compliance inspection, or invasive evaluation. When an observed condition warrants additional investigation, the report may recommend further evaluation by an appropriate qualified professional.

Question 2

How long does a home inspection take?

Accepted Answer

Most inspections take 2 to 4 hours. However, inspection time varies based on the property's size, age, condition, design, and accessibility. Larger, older, or more complex homes generally take longer than smaller or newer properties.When scheduling, Lock & Key can provide a reasonable expectation based on the property information available.

Question 3

Can I attend the inspection?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In fact, I recommend joining me for approximately the last 30 minutes of the inspection.This gives me time to work through the property systematically and document my observations without interruption, while still giving us time at the end to walk through important findings together. I can show you conditions that are easier to understand in person, explain what I observed, and answer questions before I finish the report.You are welcome to ask questions afterward as well—the goal is for you to understand the home, not simply receive a report.

Question 4

When is or isn't a home inspection recommended?

Accepted Answer

When it is recommended:A professional home inspection is recommended for nearly every purchase, including resale homes and new construction. It helps prevent unexpected repairs that can cost thousands of dollars and can even strengthen your negotiation power. According to a Porch survey of 998 homebuyers, respondents reported saving an average of $14,000 on their home's final price by negotiating based on their inspection results.​When it is not recommended:You might consider skipping an inspection if you’re planning a full tear-down, a land-value purchase, or a complete renovation where you'll replace every major system anyway.

Question 5

Should I have a home inspected if it is new construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A newly constructed home has not necessarily received an independent inspection on your behalf. New homes can still have incomplete work, installation concerns, damaged components, or other conditions worth documenting before closing or final acceptance.A new-construction inspection provides an independent evaluation of the home's readily accessible condition at the time of inspection.

Question 6

How do I schedule an inspection?

Accepted Answer

You can reach out to me directly at graham@lockandkeypi.com or 970-443-2637. You can also fill out the Get In Touch Form on the contact page, and I will reach out to you shortly after.