Q. What is a Home Inspection?
A: A home inspection is a non bias, non invasive, visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector will document and address the issue in the report and may recommend further evaluation.

Q. When do I call in the home inspector?
A: Before you sign the contract or purchase agreement, make your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. Contact a home inspector immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Home inspectors are aware of the time constraints involved in purchase agreements and most are available to conduct the required inspection within a few days. Don't find yourself scrambling to find a home inspector at the last minute to schedule your home inspection. Most reputable Inspectors do have a few inspections already scheduled on their calendar. The earlier you call to schedule your home inspection, the better. 

Q. Do all of the utilities need to be on prior to the home inspection?
A. YES. Please make sure that all of the utilities including gas, water and electricity are turned on prior to the inspection. Taking this very important step will help to expedite your inspection and ensure that everything is inspected properly. Your Realtor should be able to help you in making sure that all of the utilities are turned on.

Q: How long will the Inspection take?
A: Most Inspections take anywhere from 2-3 hours. These times may vary depending on the size, age & condition of the home.

Q. What does it include?
A: The standard home inspector's report will review the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof, attic, visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, the foundation, basement, and visible structure. Overall, approximately 250 points of your home will be checked and/or tested. That is quite a value when you consider how much it would cost to hire a roofer, HVAC technician, electrician, plumber etc. to inspect these items individually.

Q: Should I be present during the Inspection?
A: It's really up to you. We do recommend that you be present so that you can see what the inspector sees when he sees it. However we also realize that many people have busy schedules and may not be able to attend. If this is the case, put your mind at ease. Your inspector will be just as thorough with the inspection as if you were there. We also take a "photo diary" of the entire inspection and insert it into the report. This way you will always have a visual reference back to the day of inspection.   

Q: Why can't I have someone in my family who is very handy or a contractor, inspect my new home?
A: This is the biggest mistake many potential new homeowners make when purchasing a home. Although the person you are considering may be skilled, they are not trained, certified or experienced at professional home inspections. Professional home inspection is a unique skill like no other. Professional inspectors get what we call an “Inspector's instinct” for problems. That instinct takes extensive ongoing training and experience doing inspections everyday to develop. Many contractors, realtors and other trade professionals hire professional home inspectors to inspect their homes when they make a purchase.

Q: What if I have questions after the inspection?
A: You can contact us anytime and discuss any aspect of your new home, whenever you like. Our service is a long-term investment. Once you are a client, you are ALWAYS a client. Our services go well beyond the point of sale.

Q.Can a house fail a home inspection?
A: No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance to local codes and standards. A home inspector can not pass or fail a house. A home inspection simply describes in detail the current physical condition of a property on the day of inspection, and indicates what may need repair or replacement.

Q. What if the report reveals problems?
A: No house is perfect. When the inspector identifies problems, it does not indicate you should not buy the house. His findings serve to educate you about the current condition of the property. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are discovered during an inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely valuable, and could possibly save you thousands of dollars in the long run.