What to Expect

Our inspections typically take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours depending on the size and type of the property.

1. Grounds

Grounds: We will start with the exterior, beginning with the grounds, grading and any vegetation or trees that may affect the building. Driveways, walkways, and retaining walls will all be inspected. We will examine exterior living areas such as porches, patios, and decks as well as exterior steps.

2. Exterior

Exterior: Siding, trim and any masonry façade will be inspected along with exterior storage structures. Windows and doors will be checked to make sure they are in adequate condition and in proper working order.

3. Roofing

Roofing: The roof will be inspected and if possible, the roof will be walked. We look at the roof covering, estimate the age as well as remaining life. We will look at the flashing and any utility penetrations. The chimney will be examined along with soffit, fascia, and gutters.

4. Garage

Garage: Each component of the garage will be examined from structure, flooring, exterior, roof, overhead doors, entry doors, firewalls, garage door openers and safety features.

5. Kitchen/Bathroom/Laundry Area

Kitchen/Bathrooms/Laundry Area: The plumbing fixtures, electrical components, and appliances will be tested in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry area. We will make sure there are no leaks, and that plumbing is correct and in good condition. We will make sure the electrical aspects are safe and in proper working order.

6. Interior

Interior: We will proceed through the interior, room by room, checking the electric, doors, windows, walls, ceilings, and flooring for any defects. Interior staircases will also be inspected.

7. Attic Areas

Attic Areas: In the attic, we will examine the roofing structure as a system. We will assess insulation and ventilation in the area and identify any environmental and safety hazards.

8. Basement/Crawlspace Structure

Basement/Crawlspace Structure: We will examine the basement and crawlspace areas and inspect the foundations and framing. We will identify any environmental hazards such as water intrusion and mold.

9. Plumbing

Plumbing: Main plumbing systems will be inspected to ensure they are in adequate condition. Gas lines will be traced in order to identify any leaks. The overall condition of plumbing and any defects will be reported.

10. Water Heater

Water Heater: The water heater(s) will be inspected for proper working order. We will verify appropriate drafting and carbon monoxide levels. We will identify the age of the unit and any safety hazards.

11. HVAC

HVAC: Heating systems will be examined to ensure safety, reliability, and effectiveness. Zone valves/remote dampers will be checked along with supply and return lines. We will identify any issues regarding proper draft, carbon monoxide levels, and other safety issues. Cooling systems will also be inspected, along with air handlers.

12. Electric

Electric: Main service wires and panels will be uncovered and inspected. Branch wiring will also be evaluated to verify they are in safe working order.

13. Thermal Imaging

Thermal Imaging: Being that home inspections are non-invasive, our process can, in some ways, become limited. We counteract this limitation by the utilization of a thermal imaging camera. Thermal imaging shows the differences in thermal bridging and gives us an indication of what is going on behind the walls. Such technology allows us to detect moisture, missing or defective insulation, structural shortcomings, HVAC problem areas, sources of heat loss, plumbing leaks, roof leaks, electrical issues, and more.

14. Reporting

Reporting: Within the same day of your inspection, you will receive a computer generated report with pictures sent to your email as well as a hard copy upon your request.

Inspection Details

Thermal Imaging

Thermal imaging shows the differences in the thermal bridging and gives us an indication of what is going on behind the walls. Such technology allows us to detect moisture, missing or defective insulation, structural shortcomings, HVAC problem areas…

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sources of heat loss, plumbing leaks, roof leaks, electrical issues and more. Thermal imaging is included in every inspection.