Inspection Overview What is a home inspection? A home inspection is an independent objective examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the foundation to the roof. Learn more, view the ASHI Virtual Inspection. Why should I get a home inspection? Your home is a large financial investment. The price of a home inspection is just a fraction of the value of your home. You will get an independent review from a licensed inspector. This information can help you make important decisions about your purchase. It can put your mind at ease or inform you of potential problems. Either way, it will give you information you want and need to make your decision. What is included in a home inspection? The standard home inspection report will cover the major components of the home. A thorough home inspection will include the following: ~ Roof (shingles, flashings, chimneys, vents, trim and gutters, drip edges, skylights, downspouts, and other visible roof related items) ~ Attics (insulation, ventilation, rafters, joists and collar ties, trusses, wiring attachments, and other visible related items) ~ Plumbing and Fixtures-interior (water pressure, water distribution system, hose bibs, sinks and faucets, bath/showers and toilets, sanitary system, and other plumbing system components) ~ Interior (floors and ceilings, walls, stairs (if applicable) and banisters, finishes, sinks, cabinets, shelving, built-in appliances, smoke detectors and safety-related items, and other visible interior-related components) ~ Heating and Cooling Systems (furnace, air cleaning parts, ductwork, electronic monoxide testing, electric gas sniffer testing, air conditioner and lines, and other visible related HVAC components) ~ Electrical Systems (service entry and clearances, service panel, switches and outlets, visible wiring and junction boxes, grounding system, and other related electrical components) ~ Basements, Crawl Spaces, and Foundation (insulation, ventilation, posts, vapor barriers, utility attachment, structural items, floors and walls, and columns) ~ Exterior (siding materials, attachments, windows, doors, sashes and lintels, vents, entryways, and other visible exterior related components ~ Environmental Issues ~ Decks and Porches ~ Fireplaces ~ Overall Structure   What does it cost and how long will it take? Inspection fees for single family homes vary with size, age and features of the home, contact us for a quote. It usual takes between two and three hours but size and condition can extend this time. We will not rush through an inspection, all components will be thoroughly reviewed. When should I schedule a home inspection? When negotiating your contract, your purchase should be contingent on you getting a professional home inspection and to what extent the buyer and seller are responsible for any deficiencies.  When you sign the contract is when you should schedule a home inspection.  We understand that the time can be short so we will have it scheduled and finished in a few days. What can you expect from Inspector Homes? You will be provided a timely and professional inspection. If you are on site during the process, you will get a verbal overview of the inspection. Feel free to ask questions during the inspection. Within 24 hours, you will receive a detailed written summary by e-mail or fax. The report is easy to read with common sense explanations and digital photos to support the findings. Inspector Homes prides itself on being punctual to your appointment and takes all precautions to ensure the value and cleanliness of your prospective purchase. Once you’ve received your report you may contact Inspector Homes for an explanation of any questions you may have. When buying a new or existing home, you may have questions you need answered to set your mind at ease. Inspector Homes gives you honest, independent, professional answers.