Home Inspection FAQs

What is a home inspection? ⌄

A home inspection is a professional visual examination of the accessible systems and components of a property. The inspector documents observed conditions, identifies visible concerns, and communicates findings in an inspection report.

Can a house fail a home inspection? ⌄

No. A professional home inspection does not issue a pass-or-fail grade. It describes the property’s observed condition and identifies items that may need repair, replacement, monitoring, maintenance or further evaluation.

Why should I hire a professional home inspector instead of a handy friend or contractor? ⌄

Professional home inspection is a specialized discipline. A trained inspector evaluates the property as a system, follows an inspection process, recognizes patterns across multiple building components, and communicates findings in a structured report.

What areas of the home are typically inspected? ⌄

The inspection scope can include visible and accessible areas such as the roof, attic, insulation, ventilation, gutters, foundation, crawlspace or basement, grading, exterior, interior walls and ceilings, doors and windows, electrical system, plumbing, water heater, heating and cooling systems, fireplace and chimney, and installed major appliances.

How long does a home inspection take? ⌄

The current My City FAQ states that most inspections take about three to four hours. Actual inspection time can vary with the property’s size, age, condition, accessibility, additional structures and any ancillary services ordered.

Should I be present during the inspection? ⌄

My City Home Inspectors recommends that clients attend the inspection when practical. Being present gives you an opportunity to see the property with the inspector, ask questions and better understand important findings.

Will the inspector move furniture or personal belongings? ⌄

A standard home inspection is visual and non-destructive. Inspectors generally do not move heavy furniture, stored belongings or personal property to gain access. Areas that cannot be safely or reasonably accessed may be documented as limitations in the report.

When will I receive my home inspection report? ⌄

My City Home Inspectors aims to deliver inspection reporting promptly after the inspection. The current company FAQ states that the report is provided after the inspection or, depending on circumstances, within 24 hours.

What information is included in a home inspection report? ⌄

The report explains the observed condition of inspected systems and components, documents significant and minor deficiencies, and may include recommendations for correction, monitoring or further professional evaluation.

Is the inspection summary the whole report? ⌄

No. The summary is a convenient way to identify significant items, but clients should read the complete inspection report because important context, limitations and observations can appear throughout the detailed sections.

Can I ask questions after I receive the report? ⌄

Yes. The current My City FAQ encourages clients to call with questions after the inspection. The report should be a useful reference, and the inspection team can help clarify reported findings and inspection terminology.

When should I schedule a buyer’s home inspection? ⌄

Schedule as soon as your purchase agreement gives you an inspection or due-diligence window. Contract deadlines vary, so booking early gives you more appointment flexibility and more time to review the findings before your deadline.

How do I schedule an inspection with My City Home Inspectors? ⌄

Use the Plan My Inspection button on this site to open the My City Inspection Planner. You can also contact the appropriate local office in Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville or Atlanta if you need help with scheduling.

How should a seller prepare the home for an inspection? ⌄

Provide reasonable access to areas and equipment the inspector needs to evaluate, including the attic, crawlspace, electrical panel, HVAC equipment, water heater and utility areas. Secure pets and reduce storage or personal items that block access to major systems.

How much does a home inspection cost? ⌄

Inspection pricing varies with factors such as property size, age, type, location and the ancillary services requested. Use the My City Inspection Planner to provide the property details needed for your inspection plan.

Are specialty services included in the standard home inspection? ⌄

Not necessarily. Services such as radon testing, mold inspection and testing, sewer scope, termite/WDO inspection, septic inspection, water-quality testing and pool and spa inspection have their own scopes and may be added separately or through an inspection package.

Do I need an inspection on a brand-new home? ⌄

Yes. New construction can still contain installation defects, incomplete work or conditions that deserve attention. An independent inspection gives the buyer another opportunity to identify visible concerns before closing or at the applicable construction stage.

What is an 11-month warranty inspection? ⌄

An 11-month warranty inspection is performed near the end of the first year of ownership so the homeowner can document visible conditions before a typical one-year builder warranty expires. Warranty terms vary by builder, so confirm your own deadline.

Can My City inspect a home before drywall is installed? ⌄

My City Home Inspectors offers new-construction inspection services that can include pre-drywall inspection where the timing and project access allow. A pre-drywall inspection provides an opportunity to review visible framing and installed systems before wall finishes conceal them.