What We Do
A home inspection observes and reports on the condition of a real estate property, usually when it is on the market to be sold. A qualified home inspector assesses the property’s condition, including its heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical work, water, and sewage, as well as some fire and safety issues.
As the buyer, it’s on you to hire the home inspector. (real estate agents may give you a list of referrals) Even if the seller offers to share their home inspection report or claims the house is pre-inspected, you’ll want to arrange your own inspection so you can vet the inspector yourself. There are several states that do not require licenses, insurance, and registration not to mention CE classes annually.
Seek recommendations from friends and colleagues, and search the databases of professional associations, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors or the Home Inspectors Registration Board. Such organizations usually require members to pass an exam, honor a code of ethics and complete continuing education. Check your local Better Business Bureau to see if the home inspector has a record of complaints there.
It’s a best practice to interview potential home inspectors about their experience, training and areas of expertise. For example, if you’re considering a fixer-upper or looking at an older house, you’ll want an inspector who has knowledge about historic homes.
Ask for references from prior clients, especially homeowners who have been in their homes for at least six months. This will help you determine whether any issues popped up that were unreported in their inspections.
You can also ask for samples of prior reports and note whether they’re simply completed checklists or extensive reviews. That way you’ll know whether you’re paying for a quick report or detailed information.
The inspector shall
Our purpose is to deliver a thorough but clear home inspection to our client.
During the real time inspection we will be consulting with you about issues of concern. Large or small,
you need to know. Let us at be your eyes and ears.
Structural Component – inspector shall inspect:
- the structural components including the foundation and
framing - the readily accessible attic space regardless of whether
or not it is floored unless adverse conditions exist.
Views in crawlspace
Exterior –
inspector shall inspect:
- siding, flashing and trim.
- all exterior doors.
- attached or adjacent decks, balconies, stoops, steps,
porches, and their associated railings. - eaves, soffits, and fascias where accessible from the
ground level. - vegetation, grading, surface drainage, and retaining
walls that are likely to adversely affect the building. - adjacent or entryway walkways, patios, and driveways.
Roofing –
inspector shall inspect:
- skylights, chimneys, and roof penetrations
- flashing.
- roofing materials
Plumbing –
inspector shall inspect:
- interior water supply and distribution systems including
all fixtures and faucets - drain, waste and vent systems including all fixtures.
- water heating equipment and hot water supply system.
- vent systems , flues, and chimneys
- fuel storage and fuel distribution systems
- drainage sumps, sump pumps, and related piping.
Electrical –
inspector shall inspect:
- service drop
- service entrance conductors, cables, and raceways.
- service equipment and main disconnects
- service grounding.
- interior components of service panels and sub panels.
- conductors.
- overcurrent protection devices
- a representative number of installed lighting fixtures,
switches, and receptacles. - ground fault circuit interrupters.
Heating – inspector shall inspect:
- open readily openable access panels.
inspect: - installed heating equipment.
Air Conditioning –
inspector shall Inspect:
- open readily openable access panels.
inspect: - central and through-wall equipment.
- distribution systems.
Interiors –
inspector shall inspect:
- walls, ceilings, and floors.
- steps, stairways, and railings.
- countertops and a representative number of installed cabinets.
- a representative number of doors and windows.
- garage doors and garage door operators.
Insulation and Ventilation –
inspector shall inspect:
- insulation and vapor retarders in unfinished spaces.
- ventilation of attics and foundation areas.
- mechanical ventilation systems.
Fireplaces and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances
inspector shall inspect:
- system components chimney and vents
- fireplaces and solid fuel burning appliances.
- chimneys.
