FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION? 
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE? 
DO I NEED AN INSPECTION? 
CAN I DO IT MYSELF? 
WHAT IF THE REPORT REVEALS  PROBLEMS? 
CAN A PROPERTY "FAIL" AN INSPECTION? 
MAY I BE PRESENT DURING THE INSPECTION? 
DO I RECEIVE A WRITTEN REPORT? 
WHEN AND HOW DO I PAY FOR THE INSPECTION?
IS THE INSPECTION REPORT A GUARANTEE?
WHY IS MOLD SUCH A BIG PROBLEM?

WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?
A home inspection is a visual examination of the readily accessible components of the property that are present and visible at the time of inspection. Over 135 major items are checked including major systems, exterior, roof structure, electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, attic and the grounds.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
A typical inspection of property with a 2000 sq. ft. home will take approximately two  and a half hours. Depending on the features of the home the inspection could take considerably longer. The inspector will spend as much time as necessary to perform a complete and thorough inspection.

DO I NEED AN INSPECTION?
The purchase of a home is one of the largest single investments a person will ever make. You should know exactly what to expect --- indoors and out --- in terms of needed repairs and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious structural problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate a chronic roof leakage problem or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector interprets these and other clues and presents a professional opinion as to the condition of the property so you can avoid many unpleasant surprises afterward. Of course, the inspection will also point the positive aspects of a building, as well as the type of maintenance needed to keep it in good shape. After the inspection you will have a better understanding of the property and make your decision confidently.

For the home seller, an inspection can identify potential problems that may impact the sale and can recommend preventive measures, which might avoid future expensive repairs.

CAN I DO IT MYSELF?
Even the most experienced buyer lacks the knowledge and expertise of a "CERTIFIED HOME INSPECTOR™" who inspects homes every day.

WHAT IF THE REPORT REVEALS  PROBLEMS?
Any items found during the inspection that are found to require attention, repair or monitoring are fully identified by the inspector. The client is advised of these items and the appropriate action may be taken to correct the problem(s) as deemed necessary.

CAN A PROPERTY "FAIL" AN INSPECTION?
The inspection of a property is NOT an inspection to give the property a "PASS" or "FAIL" grade. The inspection performed is for the purpose of identifying all the property components and systems and reporting their condition to be serviceable or in need of attention, repair or future monitoring. 

MAY I BE PRESENT DURING THE INSPECTION?
Yes. It is most advisable you be at the inspection during the time the inspector is present. This offers you a first hand opportunity to see the property from the detailed view of the inspector, and it gives you the further opportunity to review the inspector's findings at a personal level. 

DO I RECEIVE A WRITTEN REPORT?
A written report is made by the inspector for every inspection performed. The inspector is fully equipped to generate a report for each property which will be anywhere from 10 - 25 pages long, detailing every aspect of the property. The report is completed at the property before the inspector leaves, and a copy of the report is given to the client at the completion of the inspection. Additional copies of the report are available without charge, should the client need them. 

WHEN AND HOW DO I PAY FOR THE INSPECTION?
Payment is expected at the time of inspection unless previous arrangements have been made. Payment may be made to the inspector by cash, check or credit card (Visa or Master Card).

IS THE INSPECTION REPORT A GUARANTEE?
No. A home inspection report is a professional evaluation under prevailing conditions of the items indicated at the time of inspection and IS NO WAY TO BE CONSTRUED AS A WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE.

WHY IS MOLD SUCH A BIG PROBLEM?
Mold in buildings has been linked to serious health problems in humans and animals of all ages. Also, mold can cause structural deterioration.