FAQs.
Answers to your home inspection questions.
A home inspection is a visual inspection of the structure and components of a home to find items that are not performing correctly or items that are unsafe. If a problem or a symptom of a problem is found the home inspector will include a description of the problem in a written report. A home inspector is similar to a family doctor. He knows a lot about your body but he isn’t an “expert” on any one part. So if he finds something wrong, he will send you to an expert for further evaluation. A home inspector is the same way. He knows a lot about home systems but is not an expert in any one system. So if he finds a deficiency within your foundation, electrical, plumbing, roof, etc., he will direct you to seek further evaluation from an expert of the system in question.
Yes. Buying a home may be the largest investment you will make, so gaining insight into the general condition of the home; disclosure of visually observable material defects; understanding the need for repairs, and knowing the positive attributes of the property give you the necessary facts to make an informed buying decision.
Our Nachi-certified home inspectors inspect the major systems in the home, including the structure, exterior, roofing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing, and interior components.
Simply stated, the more you know about a property, the fewer risks inherent in purchasing the property.
We encourage you to attend the home inspection if you can. Valuable information regarding the condition of the home and its systems can be gained from spending just a couple of hours with our home inspector. Additionally, important information on the proper operation and maintenance of the house and its systems is reviewed.
We welcome your questions throughout the inspection process and our inspectors are always available after the inspection if you have additional questions.
Plan on 2 to 2½ hours for the inspection; however, the time can vary depending on the size, age, and general condition of the home. Smaller properties and condos generally take less time; while larger, more complex properties may take longer.
Our inspectors are quite thorough and never rush. Feel free to ask questions during the inspection. And we don’t keep you waiting at the end of your inspection for the inspector to write up your report. Our goal is to deliver your inspection report via email the next business day. If you have questions after receiving the report, your inspector will be happy to answer them.
No. All inspection reports are not created equal.
Most home inspectors provide standardized, off-the-shelf inspection reports and many are simple checklists. We didn’t find these reports acceptable so we designed our own proprietary inspection software and reports.
The result is benchmark reporting – each space, system and component are methodically inspected the same way, every time. Nothing is overlooked. Our photo-rich inspection reports are actionable with defects and relevant information clearly summarized, allowing you to move forward with confidence.
And we deliver nearly all reports by email by the next business day, maximizing your decision time.
Inspection fees vary from one home inspection company to another. Criteria used to price inspections include the size of the home, age, features such as a detached garage, and additional specialty inspections requested, including radon testing and termite inspection.
Experts recommend against choosing an inspector on price alone. A “budget” inspector may charge less because they need the business (inexperienced) or because they spend less time (takes shortcuts) and schedule more inspections per day.
We know it’s tempting to hire the least expensive home inspector. We get it, but we also understand the potential downside if your inexperienced, inexperienced, or “fast” home inspector misses something.
Yes. Even the best-built new home may have significant safety or repair issues that may go unnoticed for a long time by new home buyers. The result may be costly repairs down the road.
