What is a Home Inspection

A home inspection is a visual assessment of the property and its many different systems. Our ASHI Certified home inspector will guide you around the home while informing you of deficiencies, potential safety concerns, and other expenses to consider.

*If the home you are purchasing is vacant, make sure all of the utilities are turned on before the inspection, so you to get the best inspection possible.

What’s included in our inspection?

There are hundreds items included in a home inspection. Visually observable components within each category will be assessed for condition, safety and liability.

•Roof, Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
•House Exterior & Grade
•Heating & Cooling Systems
•Foundation & Slab
•Plumbing & Electrical Systems
•Appliances
•Walls, Ceilings & Floors
•Walkways, Steps, Garage & Driveway

Most of the systems within a home are tested and/or operated during the inspection, while looking for deficiencies. A properly trained home inspector will look for signs and symptoms of structural defects and potential water intrusion. Doors and windows are opened, closed and locked; roofing materials inspected; outlets and light switches are tested; the electrical panel is reviewed; air-conditioning and/or heating systems operated; appliances turned on; and plumbing checked. Sinks and tubs will be filled and drained, showers run, and toilets flushed, all while looking for plumbing issues.

The Inspection Report

Your inspector will be taking notes on the condition and operation of the components inspected and tested. A detailed electronic report will be emailed to you the same day. The report will include digital photos, explanations about why items are deficient and suggestions to remedy the issues. Potential safety and liability concerns will also be noted, as well as major upcoming expenditures.

What is not included in the inspection?

A home inspection is a visual evaluation of the inside and outside of the home, and garage. Home inspectors typically do not hold licensures in specific trades (such as HVAC/plumbing/electrical, etc.), but are trained in the basics of each and considered more like a general practitioner doctor - of homes. If an inspector feels a specialist should further evaluate a system, they will suggest you do so.

Because a home inspection is a visual process, concealed deficiencies (behind wall or floor coverings) may not be detectable at the time of the inspection, and are therefore not included as part of the inspection. Items considered as cosmetic such as floor, wall and window coverings, will not be evaluated. Seasonal conditions, such as snow cover, can limit the inspection of roofs, grading around the home, and parts of the exterior foundation. Air Conditioning units can be damaged if operated below 65 degrees, so these are not tested in the cooler months.

There are several things most inspection companies do not inspect or test, such as well water purity, septic systems, and testing for things such as lead based paint, asbestos, mold and air quality. If the energy efficiency of a home is important to you, a pressure test could be performed on the home. Appointments with companies that specialize in the above listed tests, are encouraged to be arranged during your Purchase Agreement Contingency period.