Q. How do I choose an inspector?
We often receive calls from homebuyers who have only one question – “How much?” Of course, the fee is a factor – we just believe it should not be the primary consideration. We suggest other factors that should go into your decision about who you hire to help you decide if this purchase is a good decision for you. Some questions to consider include:
• What are the credentials of the inspector?
• Are you an active member of a professional home inspector association?
• What quality control checks do you have to ensure accuracy and thoroughness?
• How long will you be onsite?
• Does your service have a satisfaction guarantee?
• Can I attend the inspection?
• Can I ask questions after the inspection?
• May I see a sample inspection report?
• Do you make repairs based on what you find?
Q. Are you involved with or associated with any other business?
No. In accordance with the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of both ASHI, and the State of Washington, we are not involved in any other business that would pose a potential conflict of interest with our inspection services.
Q. Do you have Errors & Omissions insurance? Do you have professional Liability insurance?
Yes to both.
Q. Should the buyer attend the inspection?
We strongly encourage you to attend the inspection. And we invite you to participate in the process. Follow us around, ask questions, and carry our tools (just kidding on the tools). The more involved you are in the inspection, the better understanding you will have of the home. Nothing beats seeing things with your own eyes, and being able to ask whatever questions occur to you. We’ll talk about operating and maintaining the home, and how to make it more comfortable and energy efficient, and how to prevent damage and deterioration. We’ve lost count of the buyers who have told us that they never would have known these things if they hadn’t attended the inspection.
Q. How soon can you typically schedule an inspection?
We do our best to schedule your inspection as soon as possible. That might be as soon as a couple days. We want you to have the information you need ASAP so you’ll have as much time as possible to make informed and un-rushed decisions.
Q. Have your Home Inspectors passed any National Home Inspection Organization’s examinations?
Our inspectors have passed the National Home Inspector Examination, the industry standard for determining our knowledge of the structural and mechanical systems and components in a home. This is an independent exam, unlike those “in-house” exams and certifications obtained by many other inspectors.
Q. Are your Home Inspectors experienced in residential and commercial inspections?
We specialize in single-family residential inspections but also inspect apartment buildings and small commercial properties.
Q. Can a home “fail” an inspection?
A home does not “pass” or “fail” an inspection. Our home inspectors are independent, unbiased third-party professionals trained and experienced to give you an objective assessment of the home. We educate you about the home, so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.
Q. How long have you been in the business as a home inspection company?
We have conducted thousands of inspections since we started the business in 1995.
Q. What continuing education and training do your Home Inspectors receive?
We obtain at least 20 hours of continuing education every year to stay current with evolving building technology and standards.
Q. Do your Home Inspectors stay up-to-date with new concerns, equipment, standards, and techniques?
We have access to professional advisory boards that help us stay up-to-date with new concerns, equipment, standards, and techniques.
Q. Do your Home Inspectors use high-tech equipment?
We have a variety of tools that help us identify safety hazards and defects and damage to structural and mechanical systems and components.
Q. Do your Home Inspectors perform inspections according to a Standard of Practice?
We meet the Home Inspection “Standards of Practice” set forth by ASHI® and the State of Washington.
Q. Do your Home Inspectors follow a Code of Ethics?
We comply with the “Code of Ethics” set forth by ASHI® and the State of Washington.
Q. How much does the inspection cost?
We base our fees on the specifics of each home – the size and age of the home are the primary factors. We accept checks, cash or money orders, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
Q. What will the inspection report include?
You’ll find the full scope of our inspection at (link to scope page). You’ll find that it’s an exhaustive list that will help you get a thorough knowledge of the home.
Q. Will you prepare a written report?
Yes, you get two reports. The primary report is often over 30 pages, and covers everything we discovered during the inspection. We also include a Summary Report of those items that we recommend you address. Think of this as your “to-do” list. The report is narrative in nature so that you can read, in plain English, the results of the home inspection. No confusing check boxes and keys to decipher.
Q. Is the report hand written or computer based?
The report is computer generated. You’ll receive it via email after we have a chance to review it for accuracy and completeness. Our goal is to get it to you within 24 hours of the inspection.
Q. Do you include pictures with your report?
Absolutely! We agree that a picture is worth a thousand words!
Q. Can I look at a sample report?
Sure, you can view a sample report on our website by clicking here.
Q. How long does an inspection take?
As much time as it takes to do a thorough job. Much of that depends on the age, size, foundation type, and how well the property has been maintained (or neglected). We are typically at the home for 2.5 to 4 hours.