A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

Buying a home is often the costliest investment a person will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, a person should learn as much as they can about the house prior to purchase. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

If you are a homeowner already, an inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that may help you avoid costly repairs in the future.

If you are planning to sell your home, an inspection may give you the opportunity to complete repairs that will position the house for improved selling.

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are bound by, allowing time for you to review the findings after the inspection is complete; this will take an additional 30-45 minutes. For example, a 2,000 square foot home would normally take between 2.5 and 3 hours total time.

While it is not required that you be present for the inspection, we encourage you to be on-site in order to observe the process. The report is easier to understand if you have seen the problems firsthand.

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

No, but we do advise discussing the items with your realtor if you are purchasing or selling and/or discussing with qualified professionals. Reminder, the report is primarily an informational tool.

No. Repair costs should be quoted by qualified contractors, professionally licensed technicians, or companies qualified/licensed to complete the required work. The inspector may verbally offer cost assumptions based on experience, but you should seek quotes from professional contractors.

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report and will have that information for future reference.

Warranties do not cover many components of the home and may include restrictions that could avoid the warranty, such as pre-existing conditions. An inspection may prevent this from occurring and may reveal defects that would not fall under warranty.

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing.

Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age, and possible optional services such as septic, well, or radon testing.

Do not let cost be the deciding factor for a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector.

The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including training, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.

Please give us a call or request an appointment and we will discuss with you the services required and provide you a cost in advance of service.

You can pay through credit or debit using our online payment tool. Payment must be received prior to inspection of the property.

The buyer. Setting the date and time may be done by you or an authorized agent.

Yes, we offer discounts to active duty/veterans and first responders. Please call for a price quote.

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. A home inspector is not required to verify local code compliance as the home may have been constructed to local building codes that may have possibly changed since the home was built. The exception to this is only if it poses a health/safety risk. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need repair or replacement.

Yes! A report will be received within 24 hours of completing the inspection. Please view our sample report.

Yes, all utilities must be on prior to the inspector’s arrival. An inspection cannot be thoroughly completed if utilities are not on. Should the inspector need to make a return visit, an additional fee will apply. Your agent can arrange for utilities to be turned on.

Yes, leases may transfer the responsibility of paying for maintenance, upkeep, damage, and repairs to the lessee. It is a wise idea to know the conditions prior to signing the lease.