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Below is a Library of Frequently asked Questions.

· Do I need an inspection?
In most cases, purchasing real estate is the largest investment that you will ever make. Gaining insight into the general condition of the building, major deficiencies in any of the components, the age of it's systems and corresponding life expectancies, the need for repairs and the positive attributes of the property (i.e.: new roof, low maintenance exteriors and upgrades) gives you the necessary facts to make an informed buying decision.
The simple axiom is that the more you know about the property - the less your exposure to the risks inherent in purchasing the property.

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· What does the inspector inspect?
Starting at the exterior of the property, the inspector will visually inspect the roof, flashing, chimneys, gutters, and downspouts. The inspector will then inspect the siding, trim, windows, doors, decks, walkways and driveways. Drainage issues, retaining walls and patios will be inspected as to any negative impact that they may pose on the building.

After the inspector has completed his survey of the exterior he will inspect the visible framing members in the attic and basement for signs of structural defects and prior repairs.

The inspector will also visually inspect the electrical system, the heating and cooling systems, the plumbing, insulation, and appliances. While these areas are being observed the inspector will note any deficiencies in the interior components of the home.

In addition to noting any visible defects, throughout the inspection, the inspector will explain how the various systems of the home operate and give you information on how to maintain the home. It is a good idea to bring a pad of paper and any questions that you may have to the inspection so the inspector can address your concerns during the on-site walk-through.

After the inspection is complete, the inspector will produce a written report that describes the systems and components of the home and reports the defects and repairs that were noted during the inspection.

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· What kind of home inspections report is prepared?
Unlike many inspection companies that use checklists or "cookie cutter" reports, a good home inspection company prepares a comprehensive narrative report that is custom tailored to the home that is being inspected.

Each major system of the property has a separate section that explains the system, it's positive attributes, maintenance advice and any defects that the inspector noted at the time of his/her inspection. All sections of the report are divided into three parts which itemize the Major Defects, Safety Concerns and Other Comments.

The report also includes an Overview section that discusses the more significant issues, the inspector's recommendations and a section of general maintenance advice and service frequencies for the systems.

Simply stated, while nearly all inspection companies tout their reports as the best, they are primarily designed to be easy for the inspection company to produce and deliver. On the other hand, quality home inspectors specifically design reports to be easy for the consumer to understand.

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· How long does the inspection take?
The on-site inspection averages to 2 to 3 hours, but can vary based on the size, age and general condition of the home being inspected. Smaller properties will take less time, while large and complex properties will take longer.

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· What is the cost of an inspection?
Home inspection fees are market competitive and are based on the size, age and complexity of the property being inspected, not on the cost of the property. (back to top)

· House inspections insured for errors and omissions?
Yes. Proof of insurance is available upon request.

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· Do I need an inspection if I am building or purchasing a new home?
Absolutely. Contrary to what many people think, brand new homes and homes under construction should be inspected regardless of whether they will be conveyed with a builder's warranty. Further, the inspections that are completed by local code enforcement officials are focused primarily on a narrow set of code compliance issues and are not nearly as broad or inclusive.

Our inspectors routinely observe structural, heating, cooling, roofing, exterior, plumbing and interior defects in new homes that may go unnoticed by both the builder and purchaser until they become a substantial problem. A home inspector offers several new construction inspections:

Completed Home Quality home inspectors will perform a comprehensive building inspection prior to settlement and produce a full written report detailing the inspector's findings. Three Phase New Construction Progress Inspection Part 1 - The inspector will visit the property when the foundation has been poured, but prior to backfill and inspect the foundation, footings, basement slab preparation work and foundation drainage system. The inspector's findings will be detailed in writing and provided in duplicate to the client so a copy can be forwarded to the builder. Part 2 - The building will be inspected prior to the installation of the insulation. The inspector will inspect the framing, sheathing, roofing materials and the rough electrical, heating and plumbing work. Again, the inspector's findings will be detailed in writing and provided in duplicate to the client so a copy can be forwarded to the builder. Part 3 - When the building is completed, the inspector will inspect the exterior, roof, gutters, chimneys, flashings, siding, trim, doors and site. He will also inspect the finished heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing, and interior systems. A comprehensive written report is supplied after this stage of the inspection process. Weekly New Construction Progress Inspection Home inspection companies also offer weekly construction monitoring where the inspector visits the project once a week to monitor the work as it progresses. The inspector's findings will be detailed in writing and provided in duplicate to the client so a copy can be forwarded to the builder. When the building is complete, but prior to settlement, a final comprehensive inspection is performed and a written report is supplied to the client. Eleventh Month New Construction Inspection A good home inspection company will perform a full inspection of the property for any issues that should be brought to the builder's attention prior to the lapse of the builder's warranty. A comprehensive written report is supplied to the client.

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· Should I attend the inspection?
If at all possible, yes. Information regarding the condition of the home and it's systems can be gained from spending just a few hours with one of our inspectors. Information on the proper operation and maintenance of the building and it's systems is also given at the time of the physical inspection.

If you cannot attend the inspection, your inspector will complete the inspection, produce the written report and call you to discuss the home and the items contained in the report.

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