What Is An Inspection?
An inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a property for the purpose of providing an objective, independent, professional opinion about the condition of the property. If you are thinking of buying a home or commercial building, you should have it inspected before the final purchase by an experienced and impartial professional inspector.

 

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 - Capacity, 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 3 hours or more depending on the size, condition and age of the property. A comprehensive computer generated report will be hand delivered within 24 hours.