The Inspection Process

During a home inspection, the roof is evaluated for its structural integrity, estimated age, overall condition, and potential issues such as leaks, damage, or signs of wear and tear.  We try to walk on every roof that is safe and accessible via ladders. All flashing and penetration points will be thoroughly evaluated.  

You'll hear me say this over and over: Water causes nearly all problems within a home. Ensuring proper drainage around the exterior is critical to the home's interior health. We'll check to make sure grading around the home is adequate, downspouts extend properly, and tips that will help ensure future problems don't develop.  

This includes assessing siding, windows, doors,  chimneys, and trim for signs of damage, decay, or weathering.  We' also evaluate all areas of decking, patios, walkways, driveways and any permanently installed structures in relation to home.  

 All accessible areas of the attic will be check for any framing concerns, leaks, insulation provisions, and potential ventilation and potential mold/moisture concerns. It's critical to ensure your inspector will enter all the tight spaces in the home.  

During the interior inspection we'll check all accessible areas to insure no hidden concerns. This includes windows, electrical components, doors, flooring, walls/ceilings, and garage components.  

Fully installed kitchen appliances will be operated and checked for estimate ages , functionality, and possible damages.  

 Evaluation of all visible and accessible areas of the plumbing will be operated and stressed. This includes kitchens, bathrooms, sink, water heaters, etc. Our goal to verify operation, no leaks are present, and identify and possible upgrades that may be necessary.  

We'll visually inspect and operate all heating and cooling systems to verify functionality and potential life expectancies. Please keep in mind that Air Conditioning systems cannot be operated during the colder months.  

An evaluation of the electrical system includes the service entry into the home, all panels, and accessible wiring/outlets throughout the home.  

Visible sections of the foundation and framing will be evaluated for possible concerns and damages that may affect the structure of the home.  

One of the most important aspects of the inspections is evaluating for water intrusion. We'll help identify past water concerns, interior drainage provisions (pumps and drains), and other possible hidden defects that may exist. 

We do have limitations as home inspectors. Items that are not permanently installed fixtures to the home, sometimes referred to as "auxiliary systems" are not evaluated. This includes any plug-in appliances (countertop microwaves, washer/dryer, etc.), alarm or security systems, generators, lawn irrigation systems, etc.