ABOUT HOME INSPECTIONS

A home inspector performs a very valuable and important service. Professional home inspectors examine existing homes using professional standards as a measure to accurately report their condition to parties involved in the real estate transaction.

The home inspector does not evaluate the home for cost or value, but reports objectively in writing the condition of the home's systems as they appear and operate at the time of the inspection. A detailed home inspection usually takes two to three hours or longer, depending on the home’s age and square footage.

We recommend that you be present at your home inspection so that you can ask your inspector any questions and to look at any areas needing maintenance or repair.

When making a purchase online, most consumers will look for a seal of approval from a company such as Thawte or VeriSign. Click on the seal below to let you know that I am certified by the world's largest home inspection organization.

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REPORTS

Look for a combination report that offers a checklist and narrative format which is easy to read and understand. I often wish my report was a combination report, but it is 100% narrative.  Seems like a lot of the major software programs are going this way.  Maybe we could write something along these lines….

Look for a computer generated report written in a narrative format which is easy to read and understand.  Digital pictures should be included for clarification of defective items.

WHAT SHOULD BE INSPECTED

Professional and competent home inspectors are fully trained in the proper operation of all commonly found home systems.
These systems generally include:

• Septic System Testing
• Swimming Pool/Spa
• Water Quality Testing
• Well Testing
• Structural Components: Foundations, floors and walls.
• Exterior Components: Siding paint, windows, decks, garage doors, etc.
• Roofing: Coverings, flashings, chimneys, etc.
• Plumbing: Piping, fixtures, faucets, water heating and fuel storage systems, etc.
• Electrical: Wiring, main service panels, conductors, switches, receptacles, etc.
• Heating: Equipment, safety controls, distribution systems, chimneys, etc.
• Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps: Cooling and air-handling equipment, controls and ducting, etc.
• Interior: Partitions, ceilings, floors, railings, doors and windows, etc.
• Insulation and Ventilation: Attics, walls, floors, foundations, kitchen and bathrooms, etc.

Can we remove the first four bullet items.  I steer clear of septics, water quality and well testing.  I plan on adding pools to my list at some point, but it’s another class/certification that I need to take. 

OTHER TYPES OF INSPECTIONS

There are many other types of property inspections offered by home inspectors, depending on your needs:

• Pre-Listing Inspections
• Pre-Purchase Inspections
• New Construction Inspections
• HUD/FHA Inspections
• Multiunit Inspections
• Annual Maintenance Checkup