What is a Home Inspection?

Why do I need a Home Inspection?

What does a Home Inspection include?

Do I need to be there during the Inspection?

How long will the Inspection take?

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?

Why can't I do the Inspection myself?

What if the Inspection uncovers problems?

Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?

What is a Home Inspection?   Back to top

A home inspection is a professional, complete visual examination of the visible and accessible systems and physical structural elements of a home.

Why do I need a Home Inspection?   Back to top

A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house that you are interested in before you buy. This can help you can avoid costly surprise repairs and problems with your new home. Our report will advise you of what maintenance is required to keep your home in top condition. A professional inspection will give you a clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. If you are selling your home, a listing inspection will point out any potential problems that might be uncovered later by the buyer's inspector. Finding them early will allow you to address them before listing your home, making for a faster and smoother sale.

What does a Home Inspection include?   Back to top

Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of the home's heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structures. See Our Services for more information.

Do I need to be there during the Inspection?   Back to top

No, you are not required to be there for the inspection, but we highly recommend it. It is a valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. By following the inspector you can ask questions directly and the inspector can explain maintenance tips for specific areas. We feel you will be able to best understand the finished report and get the most benefit from it by having been there during the inspection.

How long will the Inspection take?   Back to top

The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. For most homes, 3 hours is pretty typical. But for larger homes or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?   Back to top

Absolutely. A professional inspection of a new home is important. We can spot potential problems early, while they are still easy to correct. Its especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls are finished. As inspection professionals, we may find problem areas where the builder has taken shortcuts or done substandard  work.

Why can't I do the Inspection myself?   Back to top

Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still do not have the knowledge, training and experience of a professional Home Inspector. We've inspected thousands of homes. We are not only familiar with all the systems of a home, but also how they work and need to be maintained. We also know what to look for to tell us that they are getting ready to fail or may be unsafe. Beyond the technical expertise and experience a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector remains an impartial third party. If you are involved in buying or selling a house its impossible for you to remain completely unemotional about the home and decisions associated with it.  The professional inspector will provide an objective, unbiased reporting of the facts.

What if the Inspection uncovers problems?   Back to top

Our report will tell you the condition of the house, including needed repairs and expenses. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to you to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect your decision to purchase. If major problems are discovered, you may want to try negotiating with the seller to have them repaired before close of escrow, ask the seller for a price adjustment, or receive favorable contract terms. In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about potential problems gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.

Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?   Back to top

No. The code of ethics of The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) prohibits its members from doing repair work on properties they inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. Our purpose is to provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home. We are not a home repair company and are not affiliated with one. We have no interest in making repairs.