No Habla English, No Problema

New Spanish language home inspection materials?make it easy for homebuyers to learn about home inspections
New Spanish language home inspection materials?make it easy for homebuyers to learn about home inspections

RISMEDIA, December 1, 2006-Respuestas a sus preguntas sobre la inspeccion de la vivienda. Confused? Imagine how a prospective homebuyer who only speaks Spanish feels when reading a typical home inspection report in English. Translated, the aforementioned phrase reads: Your Home Inspection Questions Answered. Now, thanks to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), learning about home inspections has never been easier — especially if you speak Spanish.

In an effort to provide homebuyers and sellers with the information they need in a language they understand, ASHI has translated its Standards of Practice, Code of Ethics and general consumer brochure into Spanish.

“This is a step in the right direction,” said Joe Corsetto, 2006 ASHI president. “We’re removing the barriers for Spanish-speaking homebuyers who previously may have not considered a home inspection.”

Home Inspection Questions Answered

Spanish-speaking homebuyers and sellers who once had to rely on a real estate agent, friend or family member to translate information provided in ASHI’s general consumer brochure can now request a Spanish version, which includes answers to the following questions:

What is a home inspection? (En que consiste la inspeccion de la vivienda?)

An objective, visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

What does a home inspection include? (Que se incluye?)

A standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air; interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

How much will it cost? (Cuanto costara?)

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing.

Can a house fail an inspection? (Pueda una casa ser desapobada en una inspeccion?)

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspection, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, bur rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

When do I call a home inspector? (Cuando puedo llamar a un inspector de vivienda?)

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

For more information, visit www.ASHI.org.

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