The Process

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Before the inspection.  We'll send a contract (via email) to the person requesting the inspection.  The contract outlines what we'll do during the inspection, our specific responsibilities, and the price of the inspection.  Once the contract is digitally signed, we'll confirm the date for the inspection.

 

Day of the inspection.  We'll arrive promptly, make contact with the appropriate people (agent, buyer, seller, as necessary), and conduct our inspection. The inspection will generally take two to four hours, but it could take more time depending on the size of the house.  We will look at all areas of the home:  the outside grounds and structure, the roof, the attic, the interior, the garage, etc.  

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What do we inspect?

 

Here’s a list of what we look at:

• Heating system

• Central air conditioning system (temperature permitting)

• Interior plumbing

• Electrical system

• Roof

• Attic, including visible insulation

• Walls

• Ceilings

• Floors

• Windows and doors

• Foundation

• Structural components

• Grounds

 

We won't tear the home apart to inspect piping and wiring, but the more we can access, the more complete the final report will be.

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After the Inspection.  We provide a written report within 24 hours of completing the inspection.  The report will include safety issues and any other deficiencies we found during the inspection.  It will also include pictures showing what we found as well as recommendations where appropriate.

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Dos and Don'ts for Buyers and Sellers

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Sellers

• Do make sure our inspector can access all areas of your home

• Do make sure your home is clean

• Do make sure any required keys are provided

• Do make sure all pilot lights are on for fireplaces and furnaces, even in summer, so the inspector can check the heating and other appliances

• Do fix minor issues before the inspection (the fewer deficiencies found, the better)

• Do perform periodic maintenance where needed (clean gutters, service HVAC, etc.)

• Don't try to cover up issues (like painting over rotten wood).  We will likely find the issue, but the buyer and agent may lose trust and may want to back out

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Buyers

• Do go to the inspection if you'd like to (you'll learn more about the home and potential issues)

• Don’t be too concerned with the number of defects listed on your report — many will be so minor you won’t bother fixing them.  Instead, pay attention to the severity of the home’s issues. Some problems can be deal-breakers.  If serious problems turn up, talk to us and your real estate agent about your best ways forward.

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