Frequently Asked Questions

A home inspection is a visual inspection of the structure and components of a home to find items that are not performing correctly or items that are unsafe. If a problem or a symptom of a problem is found, it is described in a written report and further evaluation may be recommended.

Emotion often affects buyers and makes it hard to imagine any problems with a new home. A home inspection helps a buyer find out about problems with the home before moving in.

The report reviews the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; and the foundation, basement and visible structure.

A home inspection is not protection against future failures — it reports the condition of each component at the time it was inspected. It is not an appraisal that determines the value of a home, and it is not a code inspection: a home inspector will not pass or fail a house, and thinks “safety,” not “code.”

It is often helpful to be there so the inspector can explain findings in person and answer your questions — an excellent way to learn about the home even if no problems are found. Be sure to give the inspector the time and space needed to concentrate.

All homes, even new construction, have problems — and every problem has a solution. Solutions range from a simple fix of the component to adjusting the purchase price, and a home inspection allows problems to be addressed before the sale closes.

A home warranty protects against components that fail in the future, usually with a deductible or service-call fee. If you choose a warranty, confirm coverage for your problem with the warranty company before a repair visit, and look closely at what is not covered as you compare prices.

You will be emailed a link to your report with a user name and password. The email contains only a link — no large attachments — and the report opens in any web browser with no plug-in or special reader.

Yes. Reports are available to clients and their agents online as soon as they are completed.

Yes. Reports can be viewed as often as needed and printed as many times as necessary.

More and more sellers choose a thorough inspection before or when they first list. It demonstrates full disclosure, and knowing about defects before negotiating lets the seller shop around for a contractor instead of dealing with inflated estimates presented by a buyer.

An increasing number of sellers have a thorough inspection performed before listing — demonstrating full disclosure and addressing issues on their own terms. The report can be linked from the listing so prospective buyers can view it online instantly.

Deficiencies are re-inspected within 90 days of the original report at no charge.

Inspections are scheduled to accommodate your needs and typically take about two to three hours, depending on the size and condition of the home.

Attending is a valuable way to learn about the property and ask questions — while giving the inspector the space needed to work effectively.

Our commercial inspection services include office buildings, hotels and multi-family buildings.

No. Our inspections are professional and non-invasive, providing a snapshot of the observable condition of the property at the time of inspection.

Termite/WDI inspections are performed by our inspectors, who are licensed for termite inspections.

A termite / wood-destroying insect inspection looks for visible evidence of wood-destroying insect activity.

Radon testing is performed by our senior inspectors, who are licensed for radon measurements and hold memberships with AARST and the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP).

Additional services such as mold, radon and water testing are sometimes available. Call 800.944.7211 or contact your local office to schedule.

Mold testing is available as an additional service. Additional services such as mold, radon and water testing are sometimes available.

Mold testing is scheduled through your local office — call 800.944.7211 or request an inspection online.

All residences, including new construction, have defects. An inspection documents observable issues so they can be raised while they can still be addressed.

An 11-month warranty inspection should be scheduled before the builder's warranty period ends.