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What does my inspection include?
In brief, our inspection includes absolutely EVERYTHING that is visually
accessible to us.
This
includes the structure, inside and out, from the foundation through and
including the roof, as well as all mechanical systems, such as the furnace,
hot water heater, main electrical panel, even major appliances.
While we’re
not permitted to tear up carpeting, knock down walls, or even move the
homeowner’s personal belongings, we’ll meticulously go through every
available square foot of the home. Our inspector has a highly trained eye,
as well as state-of-the-art equipment to help detect problems that may not
be visible to the layperson.
As a buyer,
you can certainly find many cosmetic concerns yourself. This is not
what you’re hiring us for. We’re looking for what our industry defines as “major
defects” – items that cost more than one thousand dollars to repair or
replace – as well as any safety hazards. In short, we’re there to
help protect you and your family’s investment and personal safety.
What about other
inspections I may need?
We have assembled a team of professionals who are experts in their
respective fields. This includes inspectors for septic systems, wells,
swimming pools, oil tanks, etc. Each of these inspectors provide the best
type of testing service among those in their industries, and are fully
insured as well as licensed or certified as required.
If you would
like us to, we’ll schedule these inspections for you with the realtor or
homeowner and provide copies of the written reports to you and your
attorney.
See also
Ancillary Inspections
Do I need to be present
at the inspection?
It’s really in your interest to be there. After the inspection is complete,
our inspector will start all over again, this time walking you
systematically through the home, discussing all of the items that were of
concern to him. This gives you the opportunity to see what the issues are,
and it gives us the opportunity to answer all of your questions. If you
simply cannot be there, as is the case with many of our relocating clients,
remember that you will receive a very detailed report, and the inspector
will also be available for telephone consultation.
How long does the inspection
take?
It’s over only when all your questions are answered, but the average
inspection takes about two hours. There are some inspectors who can manage
to spend the better part of a day at a house, but you’ll find that these are
usually inexperienced inspectors. Remember, our master inspector has
performed over five thousand inspections, knows precisely what
to look for and where, and has the aid of a highly refined ten page
worksheet in which to make the necessary notations. We also typically bring
a certified pest inspector to do that portion of the work. We have liability
for every home we inspect, so trust that we’re not going to “rush though”
any part of the inspection.
When will I get my report?
We promise within four business days; often, it is even sooner. We’ll email
you and your attorney, and mail you a nicely bound hard copy. Importantly,
you’ll know exactly what’s going on by the time you leave the inspection.
The report, for you, will be only a formality – there will be no surprises
in the written report. Your attorney will use our highly detailed report to
try to negotiate items for the sellers to repair or replace prior to
closing.
How and when do I pay for
the inspection?
Payment is due at the time of inspection. Most clients pay cash or by
personal check. We can accept your major credit card, but it will include
the 4% service charge that the credit card processing company charges. |
