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COMMON QUESTIONS

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a visual examination of the home's major structure, systems and components that are visible and safely accessible.  The inspector should substantially adhere to a standards of practice that outlines what should be covered during a general home inspection, as well as what is excluded. Some inspectors may strictly follow the standards of practice, while others may exceed the standards and inspect other items, or perform a more detailed inspection. Whatever the inspector includes in his or her inspection should be discussed prior to the inspection – this is known as the scope of work. The inspector should be able to provide you with a copy or online link to the standards of practice they follow.  The inspector should provide you with a written report, which may include photos and/or recommendations, of his or her findings of the inspection.  Read InterNACHI's Standards of Practice to find out what is typically included and excluded in a home inspection.

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Why should I get a home inspection?

Buying a home is typically the biggest investment you will ever make, so it's important to get a home inspection because the inspector should be able to discover and document defects that may or may not be obvious to you as a prospective buyer.  Such defects can range from simple replacements or repairs, to severe damage or safety and health concerns. Additionally, most mortgage companies require a home inspection on a property before approving the home loan. Read InterNACHI’s Top 10 Reasons to Get a Home Inspection.

How long does a home inspection take?

Depending on the home's age, size, and location, as well as the home inspector's own work protocols and ethic, your home inspection may take up to four hours. Adding square footage, outbuildings, and/or ancillary services (such as mold or radon testing) will increase that time. It may be necessary for your inspector to bring in a helper for a very large property. If your general home inspection takes significantly less than two to three hours, it may indicate that the inspector was not thorough enough.

Why should I get a hot tub inspection?

Getting a hot tub inspection with your home inspection is a smart decision for several reasons:

  1. Safety: Ensures the hot tub is electrically safe, with proper wiring and grounding, to avoid potential hazards like electric shock.

  2. Functionality: Verifies that all components, including the heater, jets, and pumps, are working correctly.

  3. Condition: Identifies any leaks, wear, or needed repairs, preventing costly issues in the future.

  4. Water Quality: Checks the plumbing, filtration, and sanitation systems to ensure water remains clean and safe for use.

  5. Peace of Mind: Offers confidence that the hot tub is ready to use and won't pose unexpected problems or expenses.

In short, a hot tub inspection ensures it’s safe, functional, and in good condition, protecting your investment and well-being.

What is an Infrared Inspection?

Infrared inspection, also known as thermographic inspection, is a non-destructive testing method used to detect and document thermal anomalies in various materials and systems. This technique involves using infrared thermal imaging cameras to detect radiation (heat) emitted by an object or system. By analyzing the patterns of heat distribution, infrared inspection can identify issues such as overheating electrical components, energy loss in buildings, moisture intrusion, and more. It is commonly used for preventive maintenance, quality control, building diagnostics, and in various industrial applications.

Why should I request an Infrared Inspection in addition to a general home inspection?

Homeowners can benefit from requesting an infrared inspection for several reasons:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Infrared inspections can identify areas of heat loss in a home, such as poorly insulated walls, air leaks, or inefficient windows and doors. This information can help homeowners make their homes more energy-efficient and reduce utility bills.

  2. Moisture Detection: Infrared cameras can detect moisture intrusion in walls, ceilings, and floors that may not be visible to the naked eye. Early detection of water damage can prevent mold growth, structural issues, and costly repairs.

  3. Electrical Issues: Infrared inspections can reveal overheating electrical components, which can indicate potential fire hazards. Identifying these issues early can help prevent electrical fires and ensure the safety of the home's occupants.

  4. Roof Inspections: Infrared technology can be used to detect areas of moisture retention on flat roofs, helping homeowners address roof leaks before they cause extensive damage.

  5. Insulation Assessment: By pinpointing areas of insufficient or damaged insulation, homeowners can improve the comfort level of their homes and potentially qualify for energy efficiency rebates or incentives.

Overall, an infrared inspection can provide valuable insights into the condition of a home, helping homeowners address problems proactively and potentially save money in the long run.

Why should I request the service Additional Photos for Out-of-Town Buyers?

Adding a backup generator inspection to your home inspection is important for several reasons:

  1. Ensure Reliability: Verifies the generator works properly and will provide power during outages.

  2. Safety: Identifies potential hazards like gas leaks, carbon monoxide risks, or electrical issues.

  3. Avoid Future Costs: Detects any needed repairs or maintenance to prevent expensive surprises.

  4. Condition: Reveals the generator's condition and whether it needs maintenance or repairs.

  5. Peace of Mind: Confirms the generator is ready to operate when needed, adding an extra layer of security for the home.

Overall, it ensures your backup generator is safe, functional, and reliable, providing confidence in your home’s emergency preparedness.

Why should I request the service Additional Photos for Out-of-Town Buyers?

For out-of-town buyers who can't physically view their potential new home, ASAP Home Inspection offers additional photo services. A home inspection only includes photos of the defects for evidence.  Our professional team will take detailed, high-quality photos of the property, ensuring that you have a clear and comprehensive understanding of the home's condition, layout, and potential.  Let us help you make an informed decision, no matter where you're located.

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