Residential Home Inspections

What is a Home Inspection?

Home inspections tell you the story of the house. Think of it like a check-up where we go through the home and review all the important aspects of the home. We review the plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, roof system, exterior walls, building structure, foundation and surrounding ground to identify any concerns which will require attention both now, and in the future.

What's involved in Home Inspections?

A home inspection is a primarily visual review of the home, based on the performance. The roof system is examined visually to assess its condition, plumbing fixtures are operated to determine flow and drainage, receptacles are tested for correct wiring and grounding and the heating and cooling systems are operated (in accordance with temperature restrictions) for effectiveness. The structure and foundation are examined for signs of distress, decks are reviewed for stability and exterior walls are reviewed to ensure a watertight system.

Why get a Home Inspection

Homes are complicated. They are so complex that some systems plumbing, electrical and heating have their own trades that only specialize in one thing. They are a collection of parts with no two being the same. With so many different things to look at and know about, it can become overwhelming trying to know if what is in the home is in good shape, or in need of some TLC. Home inspectors are trained to identify areas of concern to help you make an informed decision with what is likely the largest purchase you will make.

What do you get from a home inspection?

Peace of Mind. Following the inspection, you will receive a detailed report including photos, identifying the condition of the various systems that make up a home. If concerns are found, they will be clearly identified with an explanation of why the observation is a concern, timeline of when the concern should be addressed and a general idea of the cost to make corrective actions.

What are things included in a Home Inspection?

Inspection of the heating systems are required as part of a residential home inspection. Whether it's forced air or radiant, they need to be checked to confirm that the devices are operating as intended.

Going along with the heating system, air conditioners and heat pumps also get inspected. If there is an issue with the AC or heat pump unit, the home buyer needs to know so that they can plan their budget accordingly.

When it comes to water, you need it to both enter and exit the home. Inspection of the plumbing determines how the water comes in, is distributed throughout the home, then sent back out. Water pressure, what the pipes are made of and how everything drains are some of items looked at during the plumbing inspection.

When it comes to electricity, there are still a lot that home inspectors can look at review. Are the correct wires attached to the breakers or fuses? Are the receptacles wired correctly and grounded? Are there signs of overloading? Do the number of circuits (breakers/fuses) reflect the size of the home? These are all important questions that are investigated during the inspection.

While you get to see most of the home from the ground or the inside, one of the most important parts is on top! Roofs are key to keeping water out of the home. A well maintained roof will keep water out for many years, so a detailed inspection of the roof and what comes through it is a must.