Types of Home Inspections
Pre-Listing Inspection
A pre-listing inspection is typically purchased by a homeowner prior to listing their home for sale. Knowing the condition of the home and its systems before listing can give the seller valuable insight into what needs to be repaired or replaced and what issues may arise during negotiations regarding the home and the property.
Buyer’s Inspection
A buyer's inspection is purchased by a potential home buyer. Once an offer on a home has been accepted, the prospective buyer coordinates with the real estate agent and seller to arrange an inspection of the home and property. The information provided in the inspection and follow up report is very important to the buyer and helps them make informed decisions about the home.
Condo Inspection
Condo inspections differ from typical home inspections in that only the interior of the structure is inspected. Shared areas such as the roof, exterior, attic space and crawlspaces will not be owned by the potential buyer and therefore are excluded from the inspection. Additionally, these common areas are usually maintained and repaired by the HOA and not the occupants.
What's Included in a Home Inspection
Our inspections are carried out in accordance with standards established by the State of Oregon. A thorough examination of the home and its systems will be conducted. A narrative style report will be issued to the client shortly after the inspection is completed highlighting problems and recommending actions to be taken with regard to each problematic area. The report includes photos to help show what and where the problems are and explanations as to why the problems need to be addressed.
Systems and Components Inspected
Structure
We will examine all visible components of the home's structure including the foundation, floor, wall, ceiling and roof.
Exterior
We evaluate the exterior siding and trim, windows and doors, decks, balconies and porches, soffits and eaves, grading, drainage, retaining walls, driveways and walkways.
Roofing
From the roof, whenever possible, we examine the roofing materials, flashing, gutters and downspouts, skylights, chimneys and any other roof penetrations.
Plumbing
The plumbing inspection includes the water supply and distribution piping, fixtures and faucets. We examine the interior drain, waste and vent systems, the hot water heater and its venting, fuel storage and sump pumps.
Electrical
During the electrical inspection we evaluate the electrical service, the service entrance panel inside and out, including circuit breakers or fuses and the wiring to them, grounding and bonding, AFCI, GFCI, and a electrical receptacles.
Heating and Air Conditioning
We examine the heating equipment, the heating distribution system, vents, flues and chimneys, and all visible components of the air conditioning system.
Interior
We will report on the condition of the walls, floors and ceilings, steps, stairs, railings, countertops, cabinets, garage doors and their operation, and permanently installed appliances.
Insulation and Ventilation
We will investigate the existence of, and condition of, visible insulation in any areas it exists or should exist, as well as ventilation of attics, crawlspaces, foundations, bathrooms, kitchens and dryers.
Fireplaces and Fuel Burning Appliances
Fireplace and fuel burning appliances (wood stoves, gas inserts, etc.) will be inspected for proper installation, venting and chimney construction, and proper clearances to combustibles.