What We Inspect
An inspection provides buyers, sellers, property owners, and agents with important information essential to evaluating
a property’s condition. Through inspection, consultation and detailed reporting we review:
BUILDING
EXTERIOR - Surface grade, Doors and Windows, Safety Glazing*, Decks and Patios, Stairs and Walkways, Railings*, Surface
Drainage. ROOF - Roofing Materials, Flashing,
Vents and Chimneys, Drainage of Roofing Surface, Gutters and Downspouts, Skylights.
ATTIC AND ROOF FRAMING - Access, Insulation, Ventilation.
FOUNDATION, CRAWLSPACE, AND BASEMENT - Access Opening, Ventilation, Clearance from soil, Foundation
Walls and other Support Elements, Substructure Framing, Anchoring and Bracing*.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS - Panels, Main Disconnect*, Visible Wiring, Service Drop, Breakers and Fuses*,
G.F.C.I. test*, Switches, outlets and Fixtures.
PLUMBING
- Supply, Waste and Vent Piping (type of material used and installation of accessible piping), Main Supply Shutoff*, House
Water Flow and Water Pressure, Fixtures and Local Shutoff Valves*.
CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS - Plumbing, Gas, and Electrical Connections, Ducting, Shutoff Valves, Vents,
and Combustion Air.
WATER HEATERS
- T.P.R. Valve and Discharge Piping*, Seismic Restraints*, Water, Gas, and Electrical Connections.
CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONERS - Condensers, Electrical Disconnect,
Refrigerant Lines, Condensate Drain Line.
FIREPLACE
AND CHIMNEYS - Evidence of Smoking, Damper, and Flues.
INTERIORS - Stairs, Countertops, Windows and Doors, Safety Glazing*, Ventilation, Vehicle Doors
and Openers
* indicates safety or earthquake safety
items
Why
Do I Need an Inspection?
The purchase of a home or commercial
building is one of the largest single investments you will ever make. You should know what to expect - in terms of needed
and possible repairs and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint could be hiding serious problems. Stains on the ceiling may indicate
a chronic roof leak or may be simply the result of a single incident. The inspector reviews these and other clues, then presents
a professional opinion as to the condition of the property to help you avoid unpleasant surprises afterward. Of course, an
inspection may also point out the positive aspects of a building, as well as the type of maintenance needed to keep it in
proper shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property, and be able to make your purchasing
decision confidently.
As a seller, if you have owned your property for a period of time, an inspection can help identify potential problems
in the sale of your building and can recommend preventative measures, which might avoid future expensive repairs.
How Long Will it Take?
In most cases, the average inspection
takes 2-3 hours or more depending on the size, condition and age of the property. A comprehensive computer generated report
will be delivered within 1 to 2 days.