Frequently Asked Questions

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a visual assessment of a property including major mechanical and electrical systems performed by a trained professional in accordance with industry standards. Some of the items typically inspected are: plumbing, electrical, grading, roofing, siding, windows and doors, HVAC systems, the foundation and much more. A written explanation of the current condition of the property is provided at the conclusion of the inspection.

Why do I need an inspection?

A home or commercial inspection provides you with an unbiased, objective written assessment of the property you are about to sell or purchase, including safety concerns. This puts you in the best position to make a decision regarding your investment. If you're a seller, a pre-listing inspection gives you a blueprint to maintenance items you might want to repair prior to sale. Showing perspective buyers the inspection, and what items were fixed, gives them added confidence in the quality and care you've taken in your home. Home buyers use a home inspection to gather additional information about the property. Understanding the condition of a property can provide peace of mind for both buyers and sellers.

How much does a property inspection cost?

Cost of a property inspection depends on a variety of factors, including: square footage, time required, age of the home, number of heating and air conditioning units and location. Commercial properties sometimes undergo a bidding process depending on the time-frame available and can have multiple options in the bid. For information on the property you are interested in, contact me.

How long will the inspection take?

A complete home inspection generally takes between 2 and 3 hours onsite. This allows time for assessment of the home's exterior, interior, mechanical and electrical systems. The client is welcome to attend the inspection and I will work to thoroughly explain all significant findings. In commercial inspections, the client may be in another state, or another country. These may involve just a few hours or two or three days of inspection work depending on the size and scope of the inspection. The best way to determine the duration of an inspection is to contact me and discuss your specific needs

When should I schedule the inspection?

If you're a buyer, you should schedule an inspection as soon as you have a signed contract in place and before closing. If you are selling a property, consider a pre-listing inspection before putting the home on the market. This will give you time to consider making any necessary repairs to boost buyer confidence and help your home rise above the nearby competition.

Do home inspectors ever "fail" a house?

No. A home inspection is an unbiased report based on the condition of a home at the time of the inspection. A home cannot fail because any problem can be, and has been, repaired. It is simply an informational tool for you to use when evaluating a property.

Do home inspectors find every problem?

A home inspection is limited to a visual inspection of the home's components and systems. Inspectors do not do damage to walls or ceilings, use invasive tools or disturb personal property. Problems that cannot be seen during the extensive walkthrough of the property are not within the scope of a standard home inspection.

Will the inspector recommend someone for repairs if necessary?

Depending on what is found during the inspection, I may recommend that you have specific home components evaluated by a specialist, such as a plumber or electrician, for possible update or repair. If asked, I may provide the names of three people in a given field for you to contact regarding your property. To remain objective, I never solicit bids on repairs or promote a single contractor. I suggest soliciting referrals from friends or family in the area. If that is not available, the local Better Business Bureau is a great place to find reputable contractors.

What kind of experience do you have?

I am a member in good standing of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). I have passed NACHI's on-line inspector examination. I have completed NACHI's Code of Ethics obstacle course and abide by it. I have passed NACHI's Standards of Practice test and follow them. I fulfill at least 24 hours of continuing education every year. I have over thirty years of residential construction experience and was a former Missouri Real Estate agent/broker.