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CREIA's Mission Statement
- To represent the Real Estate Inspection Industry
- To recognize and promote Real Estate Inspection
as a unique, professional discipline
- To provide leadership through education and
by maintaining ethical and technical standards
- To enhance consumer protection and promote public
awareness of the Association
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's) by Home Buyers
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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's) by Home Sellers
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What Is An Inspection?
An inspection is a visual examination of the structure and systems
of a building. If you are thinking of buying a home, condominium,
mobile home, or commercial building, you should have it thoroughly
inspected before the final purchase by an experienced and impartial
professional inspector.
What Does An Inspection Include?
A complete inspection includes a visual examination of the building
from top to bottom. The inspector evaluates and reports the condition
of the structure, roof, foundation, drainage, plumbing, heating
system, central air-conditioning system, visible insulation, walls,
windows, and doors. Only those items that are visible and accessible
by normal means are included in the report.
When Do I Request An Inspector?
The best time to consult the inspector is right after you've made
an offer on your new building. The real estate contract usually
allows for a grace period to inspect the building. Ask your professional
agent to include this inspection clause in the contract, making
your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional
inspection.
Can A Building "FAIL" The
Inspection?
No. A professional inspection is simply an examination into the
current condition of your prospective real estate purchase. It is
not an appraisal or a Municipal Code inspection. An inspector, therefore,
will not pass or fail a building, but will simply describe its condition
and indicate which items will be in need of minor or major repairs
or replacement.
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What If The Report Reveals Problems?
If the inspector finds problems in a building, it does not necessarily
mean you shouldn't buy it, only that you will know in advance what
type of repairs to anticipate. A seller may be willing to make repairs
because of significant problems discovered by the inspector. If
your budget is tight, or if you do not wish to become involved in
future repair work, you may decide that this is not the property
for you. The choice is yours.
If The Report Is Favorable, Did
I Really Need An Inspection?
Definitely! Now you can complete your purchase with peace of mind
about the condition of the property and its equipment and systems.
You may have learned a few things about your property from the inspection
report, and will want to keep that information for your future reference.
Above all, you can rest assured that you are making a well-informed
purchase decision and that you will be able to enjoy or occupy your
new home or building the way you want.
Why Do I Need An Inspection?
The purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the largest
single investments you will ever make. You should know exactly what
to expect --- both indoors and out -- in terms of needed and future
repairs and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious
structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic
roof leakage problem or may be simply the result of a single incident.
The inspector interprets these and other clues, then presents a
professional opinion as to the condition of the property so you
can avoid unpleasant surprises afterward. Of course, an inspection
will also point out the positive aspects of a building, as well
as the type of maintenance needed to keep it in good shape. After
the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the
property you are about to purchase, and be able to make your decision
confidently.
As a seller, if you have owned your building for a period of time,
an inspection can identify potential problems in the sale of your
building and can recommend preventive measures which might avoid
future expensive repairs.
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Can I Inspect The Building Myself?
Even the most experienced building or home owner lacks the knowledge
and expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected hundreds,
and perhaps thousands of homes and buildings in their career. An
inspector is equally familiar with the critical elements of construction
and with the proper installation, maintenance and inter-relationships
of these elements. Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain
completely objective and unemotional about the building they really
want, and this may lead to a poor assessment.
What Will The Inspection Cost?
The inspection fee for a typical single-family house or commercial
building varies geographically, as does the cost of housing, similarly,
within a geographic area the inspection fees charged by different
inspection services may vary depending upon the size of the building,
particular features of the building, age, type of structure, etc.
However, the cost should not be a factor in the decision whether
or not to have a physical inspection. You might save many times
the cost of the inspection if you are able to have the seller perform
repairs based on significant problems revealed by the inspector.
Consult your professional agent for guidance.
Should I Attend The Inspection?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but
it is a good idea. By following the inspector through the inspection,
observing and asking questions, you will learn about the new building
and get some tips on general maintenance. Information that will
be of great help to you after you’ve moved in.
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How Do I Find A "Qualified:
Inspector?
There are several ways of choosing an inspector for your new property,
the best is by clicking
here to find a CREIA Inspector inspector in your area or by
calling the toll free referral service at 800-388-8443. Personal
contacts, either from prior inspections or from a friend, relative,
or business acquaintance who has had a recent inspection is an excellent
method. Another alternative is to ask your real estate agent/broker
who he or she would recommend. Most inspection services promote
their business with brochures through the real estate offices. Many
claim that their reports meet or follow CREIA Standards of Practice.
Do not be fooled; look for the CREIA emblem on these brochures.
Only inspectors who meet CREIA's rigorous professional and educational
requirements may qualify as members.
What Is CREIA?
The California Real Estate Inspection Association, (CREIA), was
established in 1976 in California as a non-profit voluntary professional
association. CREIA has grown to over 500 members and candidates
today. CREIA's Standards of Practice and professional Code of Ethics
provides the consumer with the assurance of quality and professionalism.
Members of CREIA are either owners or employees of professional
building inspection companies. Today CREIA has members throughout
the state and is recognized in California as the leading authority
in the building inspection industry.
CREIA has established a high Standards of Practice for the inspection
profession that is used throughout the state to ensure the buyer
who retains a CREIA member of a complete and detailed inspection
and report.
All members must abide by these standards and code of ethics.
CREIA offers its members and candidates continuing education in
the latest building technology, training, and materials to ensure
the most professional inspection for the consumer. CREIA acts as
a public information service to real estate buyers and provides
technical support and training to realty agents, state agencies
and other related professions.
Many CREIA members have engineering, architectural, or technical
backgrounds. most members have had experience in various construction
fields and are or have been building contractors. Click
here to find a CREIA Inspector in your area.
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What Is A Master CREIA Inspector (MCI)?
The MASTER CREIA INSPECTOR (MCI) designation is the highest rating
that can be obtained through CREIA. This designation is only given
to those inspectors that have obtained many hours of additional
training and have been tested for knowledge above the already high
standards set for the members of CREIA. Each report prepared by
a MCI will bear the MCI seal representing the best quality inspection
for your investment.
What Is A CREIA New Construction Specialist (CNCS)?
A professional new construction inspection specialist is only looking
out for your best interest. Many homebuyers are now taking advantage
of CREIA inspectors who specialize in new construction stage inspections.
CREIA has established a specialty classification for professional
inspectors who have received additional education and testing related
to new construction inspections. These Inspectors are identified
as CREIA New Construction Specialist (CNCS)
Your New Dream House Needs a Professional
Inspection
The California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA) encourages
homebuyers entering into a contract for the building of their new
dream house - whether it is custom or tract built - to retain the
services of a professional home inspector during the construction
of their new home. Homebuyers building their new dream house have
many important decisions and considerations. They need to know that
someone is looking out for them with independent, unbiased professional
eyes.
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What Is A New Home Construction
Inspection?
A new home construction inspection (or "in-progress" inspection)
is an independent, third party inspection to ensure that the work
completed is in compliance with plans, specifications, and the construction
schedule. Once a home is built, many conditions that could have
been observed during construction are now covered and are no longer
visible for inspection. Often a poorly installed/constructed condition
that could have been visually reviewed during a construction progress
inspection becomes covered or concealed later in the building process
cause a potential financial burden for the property owner for future
corrective action. For these reasons, it is important that a home
be inspected during construction by the buyer's representative whenever
possible so that any reportable defects can be corrected before
completion and transfer of title.
It's Brand New... What Could be Wrong?
It is not good business to forego a home inspection on a newly constructed
house, regardless of how conscientious and reputable your home builder.
No home, regardless of how well it is constructed, is totally
free of defects. The construction of a house involves thousands
of details, performed at the hands of scores of individuals. No
general contractor can possibly oversee every one of these elements,
and the very nature of human fallibility dictates that some mistakes
and oversights will occur, even when the most talented and best-intentioned
tradespeople are involved. It is also an unfortunate aspect of modern
times that some builders/developers do not stand behind their workmanship
and may not return to fix or replace defective components installed
after the sale is complete.
The Municipal Code Inspector Already
Approved It
Often the builder/developer will state the home has been built to
"code" and that it was inspected at different stages and
signed off by the local jurisdiction. However, building codes are
frequently "minimum in nature" -that is, the primary intent
of building regulations (codes) is to provide reasonable controls
for the construction, use and occupancy of buildings. The builder
is responsible to meet minimal standards at best - you may want
higher standards applied to your dream house. Also, it is an unfortunate
fact of the hectic pace of construction, that local building department
inspectors are often overbooked with inspections, which results
in their spending a minimal amount of time at the construction job
site and important details may be overlooked. Finally, jurisdictional
inspectors are not concerned with workmanship as long as all the
systems and components in a new home meet minimum code requirements.
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Peace of Mind
A professional in-progress inspection is a great value to a new
construction homebuyer because the home inspector will spendwhatever
time it takes to evaluate every readily accessible parts of the
home they can safely reach and then prepare an inspection report
containing their findings. This, in turn, will provide a "fix-it"
list that can be brought to the attention of the builder/developer.
Additionally the homebuyer has peace of mind in knowing they took
the extra step in protecting their investment by helping ensure
they are made aware of any overlooked defects.
In Progress Inspections
A new construction progress inspection by a qualified professional
allows the inspector to become the "eyes of the homebuyer"
through a series of inspections that occur during different stages
of the construction of their new home. Typically, these inspections
are performed at the following stages:
- Foundation form work before concrete placement
- After installation of support posts, beams and floor joists
- After installation of all rough framing, rough electrical wiring,
heating/cooling duct work and the building's sanitary pipe drainage
and potable water supply systems
- Exterior siding(s) including roof coverings
- Final "walk-through" inspection checking all visually
accessible systems and components such as: heating/cooling, electrical
and plumbing systems including safety items such as; smoke detectors,
stairs, handrails and guard railings, compliance with emergency-egress
requirements, and proper installation of safety/tempered glazing
within hazardous areas.
My Builder Says I Don't Need a Home
Inspection
It is important to let your builder know up front that you intend
to have the work inspected by an independent third party construction
expert. This will help set a tone with the builder and let them
know that you expect things to be done properly. Ideally, you will
want to start communication with your inspector as soon as you sign
a contract with your builder. It is recommended that have a professional
inspection of the foundation prior to the pour. A follow up inspection
should be conducted after the foundation has set up.
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Other Inspection Related Services
In addition to performing building inspections, many CREIA inspectors
help with analysis and solutions to specific problems, such as foundations,
energy conservation, and roofing problems. CREIA inspectors are
also frequently called upon to review restoration and home improvement
plans as well as maintenance specifications, contracts and progress
inspections for new construction to help ensure proper completion
of contracted work. If you find that you are involved in a dispute
regarding construction work performed on your building, a CREIA
member can provide expert advice. Also, many CREIA members inspect
commercial and investment properties, multiple unit dwellings, condominiums,
townhomes, mobile homes and perform reserve studies as well.
Easing The Transaction For A Home
Seller
Home sellers are being urged to utilize home inspections prior to
listing their homes. Professional inspections can discover unknown
conditions allowing sellers an opportunity to perform desired repairs
before placing the property on the market. A professional "listing
inspection" is just good business, it may facilitate a smoother
transaction by putting potential buyers at ease, reducing negotiating
points, and bypassing annoying delays.
Home Seller Disclosure Obligations
California case law states that it is the duty of a seller to disclose
relevant facts concerning the property for sale through a TDS form.
(Transfer Document Statement) This basically means a seller of one
to four residential units has a legal obligation to disclose all
of the conditions of the property know to them to perspective buyers,
which is often accomplished through use of a "Transfer Disclosure
Statement." While the listing inspection report cannot be used
as a substitute for that disclosure, it does allow the seller to
provide prospective buyers with additional information, based on
an unbiased, third party, professional inspection.
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Do I Have to Repair Everything Wrong
With The House?
A listing inspection report is not intended to be a "do"
or repair list for the home. Sellers are not obligated to repair
conditions noted in the report, nor are they required to produce
a flawless house. With a pre-listing home inspection, potential
repair items already known by both parties are subject to any negotiations.
A home seller can make repairs as a matter of choice, not obligation;
to foster good will or to facilitate the sale. Sellers maintain
the legal right to refuse repair demands, except where requirements
are set forth by state law, local ordinance, or the real estate
purchase contract
What Is An Listing Inspection?
An inspection consists of a non-invasive physical examination of
a home's systems, structures and components intended to identify
material defects that exist at the time of inspection. The heating
and cooling equipment is activated along with operating plumbing
fixtures, testing accessible electrical outlets and fixtures, and
operating a representative sampling of doors and windows. Visual
inspection of the roof, walls and drainage adjacent to the home
are included. Because of the wide range of construction practices
and the "normal" wear and tear placed on the components
of home, a professional home inspection can help provide a wealth
of information to a home seller anxious to convey the condition
of their home to perspective buyers.
Do I Really Need An Inspection?
As a seller, if you have owned your property for a period of time,
an inspection can help identify potential problems and recommend
preventive measures, which might avoid future expensive repairs.
There is no such thing as a home that is too new or too well built
to benefit from a professional inspection. Anyone advising against
an inspection is doing a disservice to the homebuyer. Many problems
frequently encountered after the buyer moves in, are a routine discovery
for a qualified home inspection.
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Is There Anything I Can Do Better
To Maintain My Home?
Inspection reports often identify the same neglected maintenance
items. Performing some basic maintenance can help keep your home
in better condition, thus reduce the chance of those conditions
showing up on the inspection report. To present a better maintained
home to perspective buyers follow these tips from the California
Real Estate Inspection Association. Most of these items can be accomplished
with little or no cost, while the benefits of selling a well maintained
home can be worth the effort.
- Clean both rain gutters and any roof debris and trim back excessive
foliage from the exterior siding.
- Divert all water away from the house (for example, rain-gutter
downspouts, sump pump discharge locations, and clean out garage
and basement interiors.
- Clean or replace all furnace filters.
- Remove grade or mulch from contact with siding (preferable 6-8
inches of clearance).
- Paint all weathered exterior wood and caulk around trim, chimneys,
windows, doors, and all exterior wall penetrations.
- Make sure all windows and doors are in proper operating condition;
replace cracked windowpanes.
- Replace burned out light bulbs.
- Make sure all of the plumbing fixtures are in spotless condition
(toilets, tubs, showers, sinks) and in proper working order (repair
leaks).
- Provide clear access to both attic and foundation crawl spaces,
heating/cooling systems, water heater/s, electrical main and distribution
panels and remove the car/s from the garage.
- And finally, if the house is vacant make sure that all utilities
are turned on. Should the water, gas or electric be off at the
time of inspection the inspector will not turn them on. Therefore,
the inspection process will be incomplete, which may possibly
affect the time frame in removing sales contract contingencies.
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Locating A Qualified Inspector
It is imperative that the seller secures the services of a qualified
home inspector. Make sure to hire an inspector who is both trained
and experienced in home inspection, maintains proper insurance,
and is a member of a professional association such as the California
Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA). Click
here to find a CREIA Inspector in your area.
Home inspection is a relatively new profession in California and
thus far not licensed by the state. At present, anyone can claim
to be a home inspector. Therefore, you must exercise extreme care
and cautious consideration before hiring just anyone. Select your
home inspector with the following criteria in mind:
- Professional Affiliation: In California, there are
standards for home inspectors that have been enacted by the California
Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA) and recognized in California
statutes. Membership in this professional association requires
obtaining initial training, passing a rigorous membership exam,
and mandatory adherence to professional standards of practice
and participation in ongoing education (a minimum of 30 hours
per year). When you choose a home inspector, you should specify
membership in CREIA.
- Inspection Experience. Of paramount importance is an
inspector's actual level of direct experience in the practice
of home inspection. A general contractor's license can be an important
credential, but when it comes to home inspection, a license to
build indicates very little as it relates to competence as a property
inspector. The experience that matters most is specific home inspection
training and experience, not building experience.
- Avoid Price Shopping. Home inspection fees vary widely.
A home is the most expensive commodity you are likely to purchase
and or sell in a lifetime. One defect missed by your inspector
could cost 100 times what you save with a bargain inspection.
The best method of price shopping is to shop for quality. Considering
the high cost of real estate today, an inspection fee is a small
price to pay. It can save thousands of dollars and years of regret.
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