Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Q: How long does an inspection take?
A: I usually spend 2 - 3 hours on site inspecting the house and going over my findings with the client.
Q: Do I need to be at the inspection?
A: No, but since the goal of my service is to educate my clients about the property in question,
I strongly suggest that you attend the inspection. Arriving for the last half hour of your appointment is best,
since that is when I will be ready to discuss my findings and answer any questions you may have.
Q: What parts of the building do you cover?
A: My home inspections are a comprehensive visual evaluation of the property from roof to foundation including -
Structural Elements: Foundation, crawlspace, seismic anchors, framing, siding, ventilation, wood separation from soil.
Exteriors: Grading & drainage, wall cladding, veneers, flashing, trim, eaves, soffits, fascia, attached decks, porches, balconies, stairs, columns, walkways, guardrails and handrails.
Roof: Coverings, skylights, vents, stacks, and drainage systems.
Attic: Framing, sheathing, accessibility, insulation, ventilation.
Plumbing: Supply, waste and vent piping; fixtures, faucets and drains; water heaters (including combustion air, venting, connections, energy sources, seismic bracing and temperature-pressure relief valves); functional flow of water supply and functional drainage at fixtures; gas piping and connectors; cross-connections.
Electrical: Service conductors, equipment and capacity; panels and over current protection devices; service and equipment grounding; wiring types and methods; a representative sampling of switches, receptacles and light fixtures; ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI).
Heating: Description, operation, venting, combustion and ventilation air, energy source and connections, distribution systems including ducting, duct insulation, outlets, radiators, piping systems and valves.
Cooling: Description, operation, energy source and connections, condensate drains, distribution systems including ducting, duct insulation, outlets, piping systems and valves.
Fireplaces and Chimneys: Chimneys, dampers, fireboxes, mantels & hearth extensions
Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, security bars, doors, windows, stairs, handrails, guardrails, safety glazing, cabinets and countertops.
For a detailed description of the scope of my inspections, please read the CREIA Standards of Practice.
Q: What types of inspections do you offer?
A: I offer the following inspection services:
- Single family dwellings
- Multiple dwellings/units
- Condominiums
- Townhouses
- Duplexes,triplexes, 4-plexes
- Apartment buildings
- Buyer's Inspections
- Seller's (listing) inspections
- Commercial Property Inspections
Q: What do I get in writing?
A: You will receive a written report with digital photographs detailing my findings. Reports include customized
maintenance tips to help you protect your investment.
Q: How long do I have to wait for the written report?
A: Electronic copies of the report are usually available the day of the inspection. Electronic copies can be delivered anywhere
in the world via fax or email. A printed copy can be sent upon request.