Home Inspections

Home Inspections

Our inspectors discuss house maintenance issues, areas of strengths and weakness, and answer client questions. After examining the outside and inside of the house, the inspector will write up the report, review it with the client and give them the report as part of the The Homebook®. Your home inspection report is organized into the following eight sections:

Structural

Covers the structure of the building in terms of materials used and type of construction. Foundation type, framing materials, and other significant sub-components are noted along with any idiosyncrasies. The inspector/surveyor also checks for major or minor problems in the foundation, floor, wall and roof framing.

Electrical

The electrical system is checked for sufficient capacity and safety, and evaluated in terms of its current condition and suitability for future use. Upgrades and repairs are recommended where appropriate.

Heating and Air Conditioning

The inspector assesses the capacity and the age of the existing equipment. He approximates the life expectancy of the equipment, examines for the need of repairs or upgrades and makes recommendation for ongoing maintenance.

Plumbing

The piping and fixtures throughout the house are checked for function flow and life expectancies. They are screened for unsanitary conditions and potential repairs, freeze vulnerability, or spillage/overflow. Laundry equipment, tile work, and domestic water heating equipment are also surveyed.

Basement / Crawl Space / Slab

Water seepage probabilities and structural problems are evaluated and remediation advice given if needed. The inspector also looks for possible problem areas that could cause structural problems, such as poor soil, surface drainage, proximity to tree roots and rotating stoops.

Kitchen

All appliances are operated and deficiencies noted. The inspector approximates the age of each piece and its life expectancy. The inspector may also, depending on the age and usefulness of the kitchen, suggest a budget for repairs ranging from addressing typical minor problems to a complete renovation.

Interior

Walls, floors and ceiling surfaces are scanned for problematic conditions, visible evidence of water penetration, potentially dangerous or toxic materials, fire hazards, or security breaches. Ventilation and energy conservation aspects are checked and appropriate upgrades are itemized.

Exterior

The roof (where safe and appropriate), roof runoff controls and landscape drainage are inspected and necessary improvements are recommended. Stoops, steps, walks and drives are checked for voids, surface problems and safety hazards.