Here, we will try to educate and inform you about what to expect in a typical home inspection. Therefore, we will keep it brief, pleasant and interesting.

Before starting on an inspection, we would like to know a little bit about you so we can keep ourselves at the same level to explain details of the inspected items. We will tell you what to do to minimize and/or prevent problems down the road. We also tell you the whys of it. We will convey our thoughts as we do the walk through together. This will provide you with a unique and unforgettable opportunity and experience to know about the property you are contemplating buying and its structural and mechanical systems.

Yes, don’t forget to ask questions. We love answering your questions and concerns. As a matter of fact, just have your questions and concerns ready beforehand. We want to make sure that you are well informed and understand everything relating to the inspection and about your home. After all, this could be one of the largest investments of your lifetime.

Be prepared to spend about 3 hours with us. We don’t rush through our inspections. We take time to inspect and explain. So let us get started.

STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

FOUNDATIONS

Foundation is the most important item of the house and least paid attention to item. It keeps the integrity of the property together. Starting with general construction of foundation and depending on type of foundation, we check for slab exposure, closeness of trees and shrubs, sprinklers, ventilation or lack of it,  and crawl space or lack of it. We take good note of signs of distress in exterior wall structure, around doors, windows and other penetrations, and in foundation structure itself. We look for proper/improper supporting materials. We check grading and drainage around the property, and look for ponding and negative drainage. All these observations and phenomenon yields us to very valuable decisions and conclusions.

ROOFING & EXTERNAL FACADES

As we move on, depending on type of roof, we take a closer look at the condition of the roof, and paying particular attention to flooding, chimney, skylights and other penetrations. Depending on weather conditions, pitch and height of the roof and other safety considerations, we walk on the roof and/or observe certain areas with binoculars. We check for flashing, drip edges, drip angles, missing/curling shingles, soffits, screens, etc. This yields additional information about the roof’s structural integrity. We look for any rotted or damaged materials.

PORCHES & DECKS

Our next stop will be to inspect porches, decks, steps, balconies and carports for structural performance and condition of visible footings, joists, decking, railings and attachment points, where applicable. We look for proper materials, conditions, and attachments.

FIREPLACE & CHIMNEY

Here we observe the visible components and structure of the chimney and fireplace as well as the interior of the firebox and the visible flue area. We will also inspect operation of the damper and gas log lighter valves for function and gas leaks.

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