Frequently Asked Questions

Do you do a Building Code inspection?

          A Home Inspector provides an insight into what your potential home looks like on a comprehensive level. The Home Inspector is familiar with the Building Code, but looks at more than just code compliance in his investigation.

What's the difference between a 'building inspector' and a 'home inspector' ?

          A BUILDING Inspector is an employee of the local municipality, county or region. His job is to ensure builders adhere to applicable law. He/she can issue occupancy permits when the building is completed. A HOME inspector is an independant contractor. He/she is hired for the inspection only. He/she has no authority to issue permits or issue fines.

Why do home inspectors take photos. And of what?

          Photographs taken by Home Inspectors are for the purposes of their inspection only. While exterior photos may include larger areas, such as the entire wall of the home, interior photos should be of components only (such as a light switch, a furnace, a rafter). In addition, photos are for the purpose of inclusion in the client's report and not for general purposes. In some cases, a photo is used by a Home Inspector in promotional materials but these should include no identifying features or information.

Why can't a home inspector force open the attic hatch if it blocked or locked?

          Since the inspector, the client or the real estate agent do not own the premises they do not have authority to make changes to the residence. Excessive force on a door or hatch could result in damage for which they may be liable. It is prudent for the agent to request the hatches/doors be opened ahead of time from the current occupant.  

What are the exclusions in a home inspection contract?

          Ideally, all home components are visible and in tip-top shape. But in real-life, a lived-in home may have storage materals blocking access to areas of the house. Trap doors may have furniture on them. Attic hatches may be sealed shut. A foot of snow may be on the roof. A home occupant may refuse permission to shut off the main power switch. You Home Inspector will make every reasonable attempt to get a close look at everything he/she can. In the event, components are inaccessible, your inspector will note this in the report.

Does a Home Inspector do a septic system inspection?

          Septic system inspections can take up to 3 or 4 hours to perform and is considered a seperate inspection. In addition, not all home inspectors perform this function. If you need your septic inspected, call me and I will be happy to refer you to one in your area.

Does a Home Inspector inspect wood stoves?

          Not all Home Inspectors perform wood stove inspections. Look for a W.E.T.T.- certified inspector to perform this. If you need one, call me and I will be happy to refer you to one in your area.

What does the Inspection report cover? What will I see in my report?

          A Home Inspection report should be comprehensive, covering all 9 areas of the standard home inspection: Roof, Exterior,Interior, Structure, Insulation, Electrical, Heating, Cooling, Plumbing. It should indicate what components were inspected and provide a description of what was observed, Providing technical details that can prove useful to you, the homeowner. Discolorations or broken components should be noted. Safety-related obsevances should be brought to your attention.

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