Information

A Home Inspection is a non-invasive visual examination of a residential dwelling, performed for a fee, which is designed to identify observed material defects within specific components of said dwelling. Components may include any combination of mechanical, structural, electrical, plumbing, or other essential systems or portions of the home, as identified and agreed to by the Client and Inspector, prior to or during the inspection process.

A home Inspection is intended to assist in evaluation of the overall condition of the dwelling. The inspection is based on observation of the visible and apparent condition of the structure and its components on the date of the inspection and not the determination of future conditions.

A Home Inspection will not reveal every problem that exists or ever could exist, but only those material defects observed on the day of the inspection. A Material Defect is a problem with a residential real property or any portion of it that would have a significant adverse impact on the value of the property or that involves an unreasonable risk to people on the property. The fact that a structural element, system or subsystem is near, at or beyond the end of the normal useful life of such a structural element, system or subsystem is not by itself a material defect.

An Inspection Report shall describe and identify in written format the inspected systems, structures, and components of the dwelling and shall identify material defects observed. Inspection reports may contain recommendations regarding conditions reported or recommendations for correction, monitoring or further evaluation by professionals. The following is a brief overview of the standard scope of work the inspection will include. These are not inclusive, and each home is different and will be inspected thoroughly. To see the complete list of items inspected as well as exceptions please visit www.nachi.org/sop.htm. This site has the guidelines I use to inspect your property.

• HEAT & AIR - I operate both systems (heat & cooling), visually check components: flue, thermostat, ducts, filters & blowers, electric, gas, oil, heat pump and hot water type systems. We also check for natural gas and carbon monoxide leaks.
• PLUMBING - I operate fixtures, check heaters, exposed pipes & drains, sump pumps, water pressure, and check for natural gas and carbon monoxide leaks.


• ELECTRIC - I open panels, check exposed wiring, lights, receptacles, switches, safety hazards, code violations, excessive voltage drops, false/bootlegged grounds, and ground connections. I also test all GFCI and AFCI circuits for proper operation.


• APPLIANCES - This can include a brief test of kitchen appliances. Ask me for further details about RecallChek.


• ROOFS - I check visible roof surfaces, flashing, gutters, downspouts, storm drains, skylights, valleys, vents, attics, and frame components.


• STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS - This can include the visible portions of foundations, frame, walls, floors, ceilings, porches, decks, and roofs.


• EXTERIOR FINISHES & ACCESSORIES - This includes brick, stone, stucco, sidings, fascias, railings, stairs, trim, soffits, windows, doors, caulk, paint, porches, decks, patios, steps, pavement, retaining walls, garages, & other accessories.


• INTERIOR FINISHES - I visually check walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors, and stairs.


• ELEVATION & DRAINAGE - This is very important as it can affect water leakage, settlement, foundation problems, and erosion.


• BASEMENTS - I check readily accessible areas for signs of leakage, moisture, and structural components.


• FIREPLACES & CHIMNEYS - I can visually check chimneys, fireplaces, wood stoves, inserts, and venting systems.


• INSULATION - I visually check readily accessible areas.


• FIRE SAFETY - All buildings should have regular periodic fire safety inspections. I will tell you (customer) if I saw a hazard during our visit.


• OTHER ACCESSORIES- Your property may have other items you want inspected. This can be arranged depending on the item and access.


• GARAGE - Doors, openers, floors, electrical, windows and structure.


• ATTICS - Framing, ventilation, insulation, roof sheathing and supports.


• TEST EQUIPMENT -I use the latest equipment to detect carbon monoxide and natural/LP gas . I use thermal imaging, pinned and pinless moisture meters, Sure-Test circuit analyzer, continuous radon monitor, microwave leak detector, etc.