Frequently Asked Questions


What does the inspection include?

The South Coast Inspections Report will review the visible condition of the foundation, roof, attic, insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, as well as the heating system, central air conditioning system (weather permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems.  The inspection is not intended to be an exhaustive inspection of every component present in the home or of cosmetic items or environmental concerns and issues.  if you are present during or at the end of the inspection, the review will take place at that time. 

Not every defective condition observed is life threatening.  However many conditions should be corrected immediately. The homeowner can potentially save thousands of dollars by taking action on conditions found during a routine home inspection. it would be prudent to have South Coast Inspections review the condition of the property every few years.  Typically homes are not inspected until a decision to put the house on the market has been reached, dramatically decreasing chances the home will be in top condition when a prospective buyer's inspector shows up.

Please call South Coast inspection anytime to schedule your home inspection.  (top)

Do I need an inspection?

South Coast Inspections can point out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase. if you are already a homeowner, South Coast Inspections Report may be used to identify problems in the making and to learn preventive measures that might help to avoid costly future repairs. if you are planning to sell your home, call South Coast Inspections prior to placing your home on the market. The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy, so that you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards. This will give you a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector and an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.  (top)

Can I do the inspection myself?

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional Home inspect who performs Inspections on a daily basis.  South Coast Inspections are familiar with the many elements of construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. South Coast Inspections understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. Most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this can affect their judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home Inspections, South Coast Inspections.  (top)

What does an inspection cost?

The state of Texas does not have a set standard fee for an inspection. On average, most Inspections will vary between $10 and $15 per 100 square feet, with additional fees for extra systems.  It is all too often that cost is the deciding factor in the selection of an inspector. Service and experience should be the key words here. South Coast Inspections is committed to providing the best inspection possible. These inspectors spend a lot of time and money towards continued education and the many little things that make a big difference in the quality and professionalism of their service. South Coast Inspections suggest such a large investment as a home purchase should not be dictated by such a small amount of money it costs for a quality South Coast inspection..

South Coast Inspections never does more than two Home Inspections in one day.  Many companies will do as many as four or more Inspections in one day at a reduced rate.  it is our belief, and that of most other responsible inspectors, that it is not possible to provide a thorough service and spend the necessary time to review findings with a client if you are doing more then two Inspections in one day.  Often times with older or large homes, it may not even be possible to do two thorough Inspections on that day.

The old saying will always hold true. "You get what you pay for."  When hiring an inspector to review what may be the largest investment of your life, I recommend that you consider quality and reputation above price.  (top)

Can my home fail?

A professional home inspection in the state of Texas is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home and therefore can NOT fail. it is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. South Coast Inspections, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what may need repair or replacement.  South Coast Inspections will not offer an opinion on a purchase decision. The individual will have to answer that question based on the information available and provided in a South Coast inspection Report.

South Coast Inspections is always happy to explain why something may need to be repaired or evaluated further. South Coast Inspections wants you to understand the information provided in our reports, thereby offering a clear perspective of items that are major issues vs. maintenance issues.  South Coast Inspections is not qualified to answer home purchasing decisions but rather provides an additional tool to help you reach that important choice. Many additional items must be considered such as personal preference and background, purchase price, price for repair of items listed in our report, terms of the agreement/contract and more must all be considered in such a decision.  Therefore, the question of pass/fail is a very personal question that must be made by our clients and encompasses many issues other then the condition of the property.  (top)

When is an inspector called?

South Coast Inspections is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within about a week. During the spring months it may be necessary to contact a home inspector up to 10 days in advance.  Before you sign, verify there is an inspection clause in the contract, make your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of South Coast inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.  For more information regarding the inspection clause, it will be necessary to consult with any reputable Realtor licensed in the state of Texas.  (top)

What if problems are found?

No house is perfect. if South Coast inspection identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, but you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may or may not 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.  (top)

Am I required to be present?

Many real estate agents recommend attending the inspection as an opportunity to learn more information about the home you are considering buying. We only schedule two Inspections a day, thereby plenty of time is available for a one on one question and answer secession after we have shared our findings. We have found that almost 100 percent of the time, questions that our client may have had prior to the inspection are answered once our findings are reviewed. South Coast inspection takes digital pictures of the larger problems addressed in the report. if a problem is found in the attic or crawl space, the pictures help our clients to understand the exact nature of the problem. We recommend attendance at the inspection.  (top)

Call Today to Schedule an inspection of Your Home...

Phone: 409-737-1190 (Galveston)

Phone: 281-996-1846 (Houston)

Request an email quote: info@scinspect.com

Website Comments: mark@scinspect.com

if you would be interested in a home inspection as a measure to protect your investment and family, please call South Coast Inspections anytime.  if you have a friend or family member that may be interested in our services, please tell them about South Coast Inspections.

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