1. WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?

A home inspection is simply an evaluation of the accessible systems and observable conditions of a home at the time of inspection—from the foundation to the roof—by a certified professional with an experienced eye. It is not a guarantee that all defects or needed repairs will be discovered. If problems are uncovered, the inspector may recommend further evaluation by a licensed specialist in that area. A home inspection should help you make an informed decision about purchasing a residence or what you need to do to prepare your own home for the market.

2. WHO SHOULD ORDER A HOME INSPECTION?

You should, if:

• You’re thinking of purchasing a home

• You’re getting your home ready for listing to sell

• You’ve owned your home for a while and wish to know more about it: characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, potential defects, etc.

3. WHAT WILL THE INSPECTION COVER?

As an Oregon Certified Home Inspector OCHI #1834; and as the holder of a Residential General Contractor License  CCB # 165020, my inspections are regulated by Oregon law and the Construction Contractors Board. I also conduct all inspections according to the standards of inspection and ethical practices of the Oregon Real Estate Inspectors Association (OREIA). This assures you, the customer, that I will conduct a thorough inspection of your home. My commitment is to give you a complete, honest assessment of the condition of the home at the time of inspection. Included in the inspection will be an evaluation of the following:

• Site examination – yard, grading & drainage, driveways, walkways, retaining walls

• Foundation

• Crawlspace

• Basement

• Siding & trim/Exterior wall covering

• Electrical system – service entrance, panels, wiring, switches & receptacles

• Roof covering – including flashing, gutters, downspouts

• Porches, decks, & balconies

• Interior & exterior walls

• Ventilation systems

• Attic – roof structure, ventilation, apparatus, insulation

• Ceilings

• Floors

• Doors

• Windows

• Fireplace

• Chimney

• Major built-in appliances

• Plumbing system

• Heating & Air conditioning (HVAC) systems

• Water heater

• Cupboards & countertops

4. HOW LONG WILL THE INSPECTION TAKE?

Most inspections take 3-4 hours on site. The final (35-40 page) Residential Property Inspection Report with embedded, digital photos is usually sent by late evening of the day of the inspection.

5. WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTION COST?

Our base price for a single family dwelling is $450.  Prices may vary for larger or older (vintage) homes and distance traveled to the inspection site. We’ll be glad to provide exact quotes when you call us and before the inspection is done.

6. WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT A HOME INSPECTION?

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you consider having an inspection performed:

• An inspection is not a guarantee, an insurance policy, or a warranty against possible future repairs.

• If the report reveals problems, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you should not buy or sell the house as is. This purchase may still be a good investment, especially because now you know its actual condition.

• Inspections do not reveal all defects. Although inspectors do the best we can, sometimes we’re prevented from seeing everything because of physical obstructions, weather conditions, and previously hidden problems.

7. SHOULD I BE PRESENT AT A HOME INSPECTION?

It is highly advisable (though not absolutely necessary) for you to be present at all or at least part of the home inspection—especially the latter portion, when I review my findings with you. You’ll remember what you see much better than what you just read in the Report.