1. What Is An Inspection?

An inspection consists of a visual, non-invasive physical examination of a home's systems, structures and components intended to identify material defects that exist at the time of inspection. An average inspection takes approximately 3 hours to complete. The purchase of a home or commercial building is one of the largest single investments you will ever make. You should know exactly what to expect --- both indoors and out -- in terms of needed and future repairs and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic roof leakage problem or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector interprets these and other clues, then presents a professional opinion as to the condition of the property so you can avoid unpleasant surprises afterward. Of course, an inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a building, as well as the type of maintenance needed to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase, and be able to make your decision confidently.

2. What Does An Inspection Include?

A complete inspection includes a visual examination of the building from top to bottom. Only those items that are visible and accessible by normal means are included in the report. The inspector evaluates and reports the condition of the following items:

• Grounds - Driveway, Sidewalks, Retaining Walls, Patios, & Decks
• Exterior - Walls, Stairs, Trim, Hose Faucets, Gutters & Downspouts
• Chimneys
• Foundation
• Roof
• Attic
• Plumbing
• Heating
  
• Air Conditioning
  
• Electrical
  
• Interior - Doors, Windows, Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Fireplaces, & Laundry
  
• Garage
  
• Kitchen & Appliances
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Insulation
  
• Ventilation
  
• And More
  

We do not perform any of the work we recommend, and are not affiliated with any contractor. This assures you that our recommendations are objective and unbiased.

Additional Tests & Services:

• Asbestos Testing
  
• Lead Paint Testing
  
• Mold Testing
  
• Radon Testing
  
• Pest
  

3. What Will The Inspection Cost?

A professional home inspection will generally start at $240.00. The price will vary based on the size, complexity, and age of the home. However, the cost should not be a factor in the decision whether or not to have a physical inspection. You might save many times the cost of the inspection if you are able to have the seller perform repairs based on significant problems revealed by the inspector.

4. When Will I Receive The Inspection Report?

Your will receive the inspection report at the inspection. Our inspection report is computer generated on site w/ an executive summary section that outlines all future maintenance items and items requiring correction in the near future. We have combined the best of checklists and narrative style formats that will provide you with a clear understanding of the condition of your prospective home. We typically meet our clients at the end of the inspection to review the inspection report and walk the entire property.

5. What If The Report Reveals Problems?

There is no home that is perfect condition, all homes have some maintenance items or corrective items that need to be addressed in the near future. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to identify major problems that a perspective buyer would want to know about prior to purchasing the property, and to identify future maintenance items that will need to be completed within the next few years. Once the home inspection has been completed, we recommend our clients review the inspection report with their realtor to determine how best to proceed with the real estate transaction.

6. When Do I Request An Inspector?

The best time to consult the inspector is right after you've made an offer on your new building. The real estate contract usually allows for a grace period to inspect the building. Ask your professional agent to include this inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection.

7. Should I Attend The Inspection?

It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but we encourage your attendance. We have found it most time effective for both the inspector and client to review the report findings at the conclusion of the inspection. At this time the inspector will review the report in detail with the client and discuss any items that need immediate or future maintenance or repair, as well as discuss any items that present a life safety issue. The inspector will also review with the client the operation and location of all utilities, water heaters, furnaces, and answer any questions. If you cannot be present at the conclusion of the inspection, we will schedule another time to review the report with you.