Very simply, a house is the single largest investment most individuals will ever make. More and more purchasers are coming to understand the wisdom of a thorough home inspection prior to committing to its purchase. Home inspections have proven to be a positive and educational experience for prospective home buyers. An impartial inspection by a professional Registered Home Inspector (RHI) or CAHPI National Certificate Holder will provide a large measure of protection from unpleasant surprises and allow you to make an informed decision about your purchase. Read our CLIENT TESTIMONIALS  - link to testimonial page

The purpose of an inspection is to determine the condition of a property at the time of purchase, or afterwards in cases involving litigation, in order to disclose the following:

• serious deficiencies (usually defined as repairs in excess of $1,500)
• replacement and repair requirements
• age and life expectancy of major components
• positive aspects of the home
• maintenance and safety information

The following is part of a standard home inspection:
Exterior:

• Slope, grading and drainage of the property
• Foundation and exterior walls
• Porches and decks
• Windows, doors, headers and sills
• Fascia, soffits and eaves troughs
• Roof, flashings, vents and chimneys
• Garage, carport and outbuildings

Interior:

• Foundation walls, basement floor, posts and beams
• Waterproofing, moisture penetration, wood rot, etc.
• Electrical service and wiring
• Plumbing supply, waste drainage and fixtures
• Heating, air conditioning (summer only) and ventilation
• Floors, walls, ceilings, doors and windows
• Attic insulation and ventilation analysis

Typically an inspection takes between 2 and 3 hours, occasionally longer, and includes an examination of all the major systems such as roofing, structural, exterior and interior finishes, electrical, heating/air conditioning, insulation, plumbing and related components.

A professional home inspection does not include appraisals, exact quotations for repairs, noncompliance with building code requirements, and is not intended to provide guarantees or warranties. Well water analysis and septic inspections are not part of a standard home inspection but very important. We would suggest that you have both of these areas addressed by professionals in those specialties. Several Laboratories provide water sample vials that may be collected and filled by the purchaser and submitted to the lab for analysis. Air Conditioners can not be inspected except during summer months (typically May to September). Pools and spas are not included as inspection items. Wood burning appliances such as fireplaces and wood stoves would require an separate inspection by a WETT inspector (Wood Energy Technology Transfer). Some fire insurance companies provide discounts for WETT inspected and approved properties.