Home or Condo Inspection

An inspection is a check of many different items in the home. The check is partly a visual inspection of the structure of the home, along with an inspection of the electric, plumbing and HVAC components of the home.

The electric is checked to make sure that all outlets are working, the heating and AC are turned on and temperatures are checked to verify that they are working within the proper variations. In total the following items are inspected:

Click here to view all items

During an inspection, the inspector will review for potential problems the readily-accessible exposed portions of the structure of the home, including the roof, attic, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, and foundation, as well as the heating/air conditioning systems, interior plumbing and electrical systems.

The inspection includes the physical inspection, any consulting with the realtor or homebuyer and any consulting/questions after the inspection as well as a written report with photos.

A home inspection involves the inspection of key systems in a home, including:

1. Grounds. This includes service walks, driveways and parking, porches, steps, patios, decks and balconies, fences, landscaping that affects the foundation, hose bibs, and any other conditions on the grounds surrounding the home that may effect the home itself.

2. Electrical. This includes testing all visible and accessible outlets and switches to insure they are properly wired and grounded, as well as ceiling fans, appliances and the HVAC system.

3. Roof. We inspect the eaves, the gable, the roof covering (shingles, tiles, etc.), flashing, skylights, and plumbing vents.

4. Exterior. This includes the siding, trim, soffits, fascia, flashing, windows, and crawlspace.

5. Garage. We inspect the garage door and the opener, the floor condition (concrete or otherwise), exterior service door, electrical issues, as well as the ceiling.

6. Kitchen. This includes countertops, cabinets, plumbing components, walls and ceiling, heating and cooling source, and appliances.

7. Laundry room. This includes the laundry sink, plumbing, venting for the dryer, electrical, G.F.C.I., and appliances.

8. Bathrooms. We inspect all sinks and tubs along with their plumbing, the shower, toilet, walls and ceilings.

9. Bedrooms. Each bedroom is inspected for all the necessary components, ensure all electrical outlets are in good working order, vents, heating and cooling, fans, ingress and egress, fire alarms, and doors.

10. Interior. In addition to everything already listed, we also inspect all interior windows, window seals, stairs and steps.

11. Attic. The attic is inspected for sound structure, the type of insulation used, venting, where fans are exhausted to, HVAC duct, evidence of condensation or moisture, and vapor barriers.

12. Plumbing. All plumbing systems are checked throughout the home, including water service and pressure, main shut-offs and water heater (capacity and combusion air venting).

13. HVAC System. Cooling systems are tested to insure that the unit(s) are cooling and heating within acceptable limits. We also check the air handler for any visible deficiencies, make sure the line chase is sealed and the suction line insulation is not defective.

14. WDO (Wood Destroying Organisms). We check for wood destroying organisms and give an estimate for tenting or fumigation when evidence is found.

There is much more to an inspection, because these are just the categories and each category involves a detailed inspection. 1st Choice Home Inspections is known for their thoroughness, always ensuring a thorough and complete inspection is provided to our clients, along with an estimate of repair and replacement costs.

The future homeowner is encouraged to be present during the inspection. This will allow the homeowner to ask questions and get a better feel for the inspection process.

The condition of the home is written up in a comprehensive report with photos that are sent to you within 24 hours.

Home inspection prices are only $325 for a single family home up to 2,000 square feet and condos start at $225. Call for quote on larger homes.

An inspection is NOT:

- A code inspection
- An appraisal
- A warranty
- An insurance policy

2012 © 1st Choice Inspections

Site created by TMF Communications; info@tmfcommunications.com