F.A.Q

What Will The Inspections Cost?
The Safeco inspection fee for a standard 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: radon, mold, and lead testing.

Can't I Do It Myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has been professionally trained, and is experienced in what to look for.  The inspectors at Safeco are familiar with the vast elements of home construction, their proper installation, and their maintenance. Our representatives understand how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail.

Can A House Fail 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. Safeco Inspections gives you on sight reports.

Do I Have To Be There?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is highly recommended you be there, at a minimum for the Safeco Home inspectors walkthrough. If you are present, you will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions directly, as you 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 seen the property first-hand through the inspector's eyes. It is much more informative if the homeowner is present.

What If The Report Reveals Problems?
As many others say, no home is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, Our inspections will let you know in advance what to expect. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.

If The House Proves To Be In Good Condition, Did I Really Need An Inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence knowing the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's report, and will want to keep that information for future reference. As Safeco Home Inspections says, "Better safe, than sorry".

Do I need an inspection for new construction?

It is highly recommended to have a new construction inspection. Most buyers do not realize how important it is to have a home inspection prior to the initial closing of the new home. They see no reason for it since the county has been doing building permit inspections, many times the builder has a one year warranty on the house, and buyers feel it will be a waste of their money. Most of the time, the deficiency lists on new construction homes are generally longer, than those on resale homes. Many times, the items noted on the report, are things the average homeowner will never know are wrong, damaged, or have been installed incorrectly. On purchasing involving hundreds of thousands of dollars, a few hundred dollars for the home inspection can save you tremendous inconvenience and offers a great piece of mind.