Inspection: A home inspection is a professional consulting service that examines the present condition of the home’s major systems, based on a visual inspection of accessible features. It focuses on the performance of the home, rather than cosmetic, code or design issues. An inspection is an evaluation and professional opinion of the performance of the readily accessible installed systems in a home at one point in time. It is intended to identify components that are significantly deficient, unsafe, or near the end of their life. Inspections are often performed during a real estate transaction, but may be done anytime. An inspection is documented with a written report.
Pre-Inspection: A professional home inspection ordered by the homeowner prior to putting the home on the market. A professional pre-inspection provides a written document in the hands of the buyer, giving added assurance regarding the serious intent of the seller. It not only explains any defects that exist but also highlights the assets of the home, pointing out which major systems have recently been updated. It estimates how long the home’s equipment, structure, and finishes will last.