Inspection Process

Roof | Exterior | Interior | Structural Components | Plumbing | Electrical | HVAC | Insulation | Appliances

The goal of the inspection process is to identify, discuss, and document any issues or deficiencies that may exist with a home. We will address any safety or liability issues, and answer questions you may have regarding the operation and maintenance of your new home.

Depending on many variables (property size, accessibility, etc.) an inspection can take up to 3 to 4 hours. We are often asked if it is possible for the home purchaser to accompany us during the inspection. The answer is yes- we highly recommended that you set aside the time to be present and involved with the inspection. This is your best opportunity to ask questions and learn firsthand about your new home.

That said, don’t worry about keeping track of the details. You will receive a paperless (PDF) inspection report via email the same day of the inspection that will describe and illustrate the home and its issues, with plenty of notes and photographs.

Areas that are not easily accessible, such as the roof and crawlspace are extremely important. We make an effort to walk every roof and explore every crawlspace, the good old-fashioned way, provided that conditions safely allow.

Below you will see the categories and areas that are inspected. Beside the categories in bold you will find a brief list of possible details that can be inspected. If your home has a feature that you do not see here, that does not mean we will not inspect it.

ROOF

Your roof is extremely important part your home and thus crucial to the inspection process. We make an effort to walk every roof the good old-fashioned way, provided that conditions safely allow. We will examine roof coverings, flashings, roof penetrations, roof drainage systems, chimney(s) and any additional features.

Here is a typical roof as found in an inspection report
Here is a typical roof as found in an inspection report

An example of a common issue seen on roofs.
An example of a common issue seen on roofs.
EXTERIOR

These areas include exterior wall coverings, such as; siding, trim, eaves, soffits, and fascias. It also includes doors and windows, decks, balconies, porches, patios, drainage, gutters, driveways, and radon mitigation system. We inspect all aspects of the home’s exterior, looking for leaks, damages, and other wear and tear that may effect the home.

Example of recommendations made to improve home functions.
Example of recommendations made to improve home functions.

Here, a deck or railing is required to prevent an accidental fall.
Here, a deck or railing is required to prevent an accidental fall.
INTERIOR

Inside your home, we will cover ceilings, walls and trim, floors, stairs, balconies and railings, counters, doors, windows/skylights, bathrooms, etc.

Every issue is illustrated with red markings for clarity.
Every issue is illustrated with red markings for clarity.
Structural Components

The importance of your home’s structural integrity cannot be overstated. When safety permits, we enter crawlspaces and attics in order to thoroughly observe foundations, basements, crawlspaces, walls, floors, ceilings, roof and attic structures, etc.

We actually enter and examine every crawlspace and attic in order to give you the most accurate information possible.
We actually enter and examine every crawlspace and attic in order to give you the most accurate information possible.
Plumbing System

We check the functions and efficiency of the home’s plumbing drain, waste, and vent systems, toilets, water supply and distribution systems an fixtures, hot water systems, etc. We will also locate and describe helpful devices such as main water shut-off, any additional shut-off valves, and sump pump.

Locations of important home features are pointed out during the inspection and in the report.
Locations of important home features are pointed out during the inspection and in the report.

How can you tell if a problem exists when everything appears fine? We not only point out, but also clearly explain major and minor issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
How can you tell if a problem exists when everything appears fine? We not only point out, but also clearly explain major and minor issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Electrical System

This includes service entrance conductors, location of main and distribution panels, service and grounding equipment, branch circuit conductors, overcurrent devices, and the compatibility of their amperage and voltage, devices and fixtures, polarity and grounding of receptacles, operation of GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupters), smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, etc.

We take special note of mistakes left behind by amateur technicians, professionals, and even homeowners.
We take special note of mistakes left behind by amateur technicians, professionals, and even homeowners.

An example of a dangerous issue that could easily go unnoticed, especially by an inspector who doesn’t walk an attic.
An example of a dangerous issue that could easily go unnoticed, especially by an inspector who doesn’t walk an attic.
Heating/Central Air Conditioning

This includes permanently installed heating and cooling systems/equipment, normal operating controls, distribution systems, chimneys, flues, and vents, cooling and air handler equipment, etc.

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Heating and cooling functions are thoroughly tested when conditions allow.
Insulation and Ventilation

These items are observed when readily visible; insulation in attic, insulation under floor system, insulation at exterior walls, vapor retarders (on ground in crawlspace or basement), ventilation of attic and foundation areas, interior venting systems, etc.

Built-in Appliances

These include dishwasher, ranges/stoves/cooktops, food waste disposer, microwave, refrigerator, and laundry appliances.