Question 1

When during the home buying process should I get an HVAC inspection?

Accepted Answer

During your due diligence period, ideally within the first week. That gives you time to receive the written report, share it with your agent, and submit any repair requests or credit asks before the due diligence deadline. Earlier is better than later.

Question 2

Is an HVAC inspection different from a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

Yes, completely different. A home inspector confirms the system turns on. An HVAC technician measures refrigerant pressures, electrical readings, airflow, and component condition. The two reports are complementary and should both happen on a home over ten years old.

Question 3

Does the seller have to fix HVAC issues found during inspection?

Accepted Answer

No. Sellers are not obligated to repair anything. But if findings are documented and reasonable, most sellers will negotiate, either by reducing price, offering a credit at closing, or making the repair before closing. A specific written report from a licensed HVAC company is the strongest leverage you can bring.

Question 4

What if the HVAC works fine during the inspection but fails after I move in?

Accepted Answer

Once you close, the system is yours. That is exactly why a pre-purchase inspection is worth doing. We can identify weak components (capacitors reading low, motors drawing high amps, refrigerant slightly low) that will cause failures within months, even if the system runs fine the day of the showing.

Question 5

How long does an HVAC inspection take?

Accepted Answer

Typically 60 to 90 minutes on site. Single-system homes are on the shorter end. Multi-zone systems or homes with both a heat pump and a backup gas furnace take longer. The written report is delivered within 24 hours of the visit.

Question 6

Do you inspect HVAC for buyers outside the Piedmont area?

Accepted Answer

Our service area runs from Greensboro down through Lexington, Salisbury, Concord, and into Charlotte. If the home is inside our footprint, we can be there. If you are outside that area, ask a local independent HVAC company for the same kind of inspection. Look for someone with at least 20 years in business and no upsell pressure.