What Is a Residential Home Inspection?
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. When problems are found, they are documented in a written report and further evaluation may be suggested.
For buyers, emotions can cloud judgment about potential issues — a professional inspection helps identify problems before you take occupancy. For sellers, an inspection before listing demonstrates full disclosure and lets you address issues on your own terms.
A home inspection is not
- A guarantee against future component failures
- An appraisal that determines property value
- A code-compliance inspection
What's Included in Our Inspection
Our inspectors evaluate the observable condition of the home's major systems and components, including:
- Heating and central air conditioning (temperature permitting)
- Interior plumbing and electrical systems
- Roof, attic and visible insulation
- Walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors
- Foundation, basement and visible structure
What to Expect on Inspection Day
Inspections are scheduled to accommodate the needs of buyers and sellers — seven days a week, with online scheduling and full-time office staff.
Attending is a valuable way to learn about the property and ask questions — while giving the inspector the space needed to work effectively.
Every inspection is a comprehensive, non-invasive visual inspection performed to company, state, ASHI and NACHI standards. Findings are documented with digital photographs as a visual reference.
Understanding Your Inspection Report
Reports are produced with the HomeGauge computerized reporting system, which integrates digital photography directly into the inspection report.
Each report combines a checklist and narrative, with descriptions of findings and digital photographs as a visual reference.
- Available to clients and their agents online as soon as the report is completed
- Viewed in any web browser or phone — no special software or plug-ins
- Delivered via a secure link, with no large email attachments
- View and print as often as needed
Buyer vs. Seller Inspections
An increasing number of sellers have a thorough inspection performed before listing — demonstrating full disclosure and addressing issues on their own terms.
All residences, including new construction, have defects. Each issue has potential solutions — from minor repairs to price adjustments — and an inspection allows these concerns to be resolved prior to closing.
Re-inspections within 90 days of the original report are complimentary.
Benefits of a seller's inspection
- Determine which items require fixing before listing
- Substantiate the asking price
- Provide full disclosure protection
- Shop for contractors competitively
- Streamline the sales process