In a hot housing market, a verbal consultation can be a valuable tool for home buyers looking for a fast close. A qualified home inspector offering this service will conduct a walk-through inspection of the home, and provide a verbal overview of findings. Verbal consultation can also be a great tool for investors who want to learn about the home's major components.

Learn more about whether verbal consultation home inspection is right for you!

What is Covered During The Verbal Consultation?

What is covered in verbal consultation WIN Home Inspection

A professional home inspector will conduct an on-site consultation that explores the major parts of the home. At the end, the inspector will address any overall questions and findings.  Areas of the home you can expect to cover during the consultation (where applicable and safe to access) include:

  • Main roof covering general condition
  • Home exterior general condition
  • Attic and crawlspace quick review
  • HVAC system
  • Plumbing including an on/off check of faucets and a visual look at the water heater
  • Main electrical panel

What is Not Covered During a Verbal Consultation?

It’s important to keep in mind that a verbal consultation is not a replacement for a full home inspection. It is a verbal-only consultation and is not a complete inspection of the home’s condition. While this can be a great way to identify issues and gain general insights into the home, a verbal consultation will not include:

  • Written report
  • Photos
  • Electrical receptacle testing
  • All plumbing fixtures
  • Built-in kitchen appliances
  • Garage
  • Full evaluation of doors and windows
  • Full evaluation of the attic and crawl space
  • Determining the exact age of a home’s components

What to Expect? Experience and Cost

Verbal Consultation What To Expect WIN Home Inspection

To make the most of your verbal consultation, customers should accompany the inspector, ask questions, and take notes. The inspector will explain what they are checking during the consultation, and provide tips for maintenance and repair. They will also provide a final debrief but clients will not receive a written report or inspection photos.

The cost of a verbal consultation depends on several factors including square footage of the house and the location. Typically, a verbal consultation will cost about 50-60% of a full inspection fee that provides a report with pictures.

What if I Need a Full Home Inspection Report?

If you need a report after the verbal consultation, you can schedule a full inspection. You can also consider a post-close home inspection if you would like to learn about your new home after-close. Ask your home inspector about packages and special offers that may be available on additional services booked within 30 days of the verbal consultation.

Is a Verbal Consultation Right For Me?

A verbal consultation offers peace of mind quickly about the condition of the major elements of a home. It allows the customer to plan for future repair and maintenance costs, but will not provide documentation of the home's condition. When choosing between full home and verbal consultation inspection, consider your inspection needs, timeframe, and whether you need photos and written recommendations.

Don’t leave your home’s safety up to chance! A qualified inspector can identify issues and provide tips for maintenance and repair. Contact WIN Home Inspection to find a certified home inspector near you and schedule a full home inspection or verbal consultation today!