A home cannot fail an inspection. There is nothing that I find during an inspection of a house that cannot be fixed. A professional home inspection gives you an independent, unbiased view of any problems and their solutions, so that you will have all the facts you need to make a sound, informed decision.

How long does the inspection take?

Depending on the size and condition of the home, a thorough home inspection will usually take between two and a half to five hours. Ideally, you will accompany your inspector during the consultation, so that you will have visual reinforcement of your written report.

What is contained in an inspection report?

We take our inspection reports seriously. Every inspection is a complete and thorough analysis of all the major systems and components in the home. The report includes a clear description of what we've found with any problem areas noted, so you can easily identify them.

You will receive your report within 24 hours of the inspection.

What is covered in an inspection?

~ Roof (shingles, flashings, chimneys, vents, trim and gutters, drip edges, skylights, downspouts, and other visible roof related items) ~ Plumbing and Fixtures (water pressure, water distribution system, hose bibs, sinks and faucets, bath/showers and toilets, sanitary system, and other plumbing system components)
~ Heating and Cooling Systems (furnace, air cleaning parts, ductwork, electronic monoxide testing, electric gas sniffer testing, air conditioner and lines, and other visible related HVAC components) ~ Basements, Crawl Spaces, and Foundation (insulation, ventilation, posts, vapor barriers, utility attachment, structural items, floors and walls, and columns)
~ Attics (insulation, ventilation, rafters, joists and collar ties, trusses, wiring attachments, and other visible related items) ~ Interior (floors and ceilings, walls, stairs (if applicable) and banisters, finishes, sinks, cabinets, shelving, built-in appliances, smoke detectors and safety-related items, and other visible interior-related components)
~ Electrical Systems (service entry and clearances, service panel, switches and outlets, visible wiring and junction boxes, grounding system, and other related electrical components) ~ Exterior (siding materials, attachments, windows, doors, sashes and lintels, vents, entryways, and other visible exterior related components)
~ Decks and Porches


~ Fireplaces


~ Overall Structure


 

Do I need to be present at the time of the inspection?

It is to your benefit to be present at the time of the inspection. The point of a home inspection is not just to inspect the property, but also to educate the homeowner or potential buyer of the condition of the property. This can be better achieved if you are present at the time of the inspection.

  • See first-hand the condition of each key component throughout the house and property so you will have a better understanding of your house and of the inspection report.
  • Allay concerns about findings which, on paper, may seem distressing but in fact may be superficial. For example, the inspector might explain that some lubricant can quiet an alarming noise coming from an appliance, that an unsightly column needs only a coat of paint, or that the problem that caused a water spot has previously been corrected.
  • Have all of your questions and concerns addressed immediately as they arise.
  • Prior to the inspection, prepare a list of questions or concerns about the property. Relate these to the inspection company in advance to ensure that such matters will be properly addressed and that any special arrangements can be made if necessary. Bring your list to the inspection.
  • Buyers can learn about the operation of your new home--how the heating system works, how to control pilot lights, how to turn on various appliances and components, and where to find your shutoffs. The inspector can point out maintenance needs and procedures.