FAQ

What is a Home Inspection?

Why should I have my house inspected?

First, you want to be sure that the home about to be purchased is structurally sound.  Second, you want to be informed of any major deficiencies or repairs that need attention.  Finally, you want to have peace of mind that this is indeed a wise decision from either a personal or business perspective. If you have a home for sale on the market or an investor, you may ask, why should I have a home inspection?  The best reason is that it can be a great marketing tool. having the property inspected you discover simple ways of making improvements that will increase the value of the property and show ethics on your part, as well as making yours sales transaction faster with fewer complications.

When do I have a home inspection performed?

Usually within a week to ten days after the contract is signed by the buyers and sellers.  However, inspections can be performed before a contract is offered in order to make a more quantitative evaluation of the offer.  Inspections should be performed a week or more before closing.

 

Who is qualified to do my inspection?


Currently there are only a few states that license home inspectors, so finding a certified inspector with ten or more years in the building industry will ensure you that your inspector knows the " Rules of Construction ". Ask about the education and experience of the inspector you are hiring. Also ask for a list of references that you can call on in order to determine the past performance of your inspector.

How long will it take and how does it work?

Generally, it takes a minimum of two hours, depending on the complexity and size of the structure.  Buyers are highly encouraged to meet the inspector at the property and you will then evaluate the residence inch by inch in order to gain as much information as possible about the property.  Make sure you personally inspect the structure with the inspector, if possible, wear comfortable clothing or clothes which can be soiled.  If possible, enter the attic and the understructure with the inspector so that you can see problems first hand, thereby gaining a better understanding of the deficiency.

Is the Home Inspection a guarantee?

No, the home inspection is to provide you with as much information about the property as possible, that is accessible and visible at the time of the inspection, and is not to be considered as a guarantee or warranty.

New houses under construction -

  1. 1st Inspection  Prior to backfilling the foundation to assess site preparation, footings, and foundation walls.
  2. 2nd Inspection  Prior to installing of drywall to assess installing of structure framing, electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems.
  3. 3rd Inspection  Prior to settlement. This final inspection will be conducted a full home inspection. During this phase of the inspection, you will be provided with details of what needs to be completed and what is still a deficiency.

New houses under construction - Construction Monitoring

Monitoring the entire construction of structure from the foundation stage to final completion. The inspection is essentially your eyes and ears during the construction process ensuring proper construction standards and ethics are being followed. Usually these inspections entail six to eight trips to the property.

Re-inspection of properties previously inspected


To verify that the repairs have been made and have been made in an acceptable manner. There is a cost associated to return inspections.

Environmental Testing

Radon gas, lead paint, water testing, consultations and construction
management.

Expert Tips

Home Problems Four of the top ten home problems involve water or moisture. More…

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