Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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, facias, 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 overcurrent protection devices;  service and equipment
      grounding;  wiring types and methods;  a representative sampling of swithces, 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 our 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
      * Townhomes
      * Duplexes,triplexes, 4-plexes
      * Apartment buildings
      * Pre-listing 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.