A home inspection is an objective visual examination of a house’s physical structure and systems, from the foundation to the roof. On average, a single-family home inspection usually takes 2-4 hours to conduct, though this is heavily dependent on the size and condition of the home. The inspector will note whether each problem is a safety issue, minor defect, or major defect. They will also report what items need to be replaced, repaired, or serviced and things that are suitable for now but should be closely monitored.

A home inspection will include the condition of the home's 

• heating system
• central air conditioning system (temperature permitting)
• interior plumbing system
• electrical system
• roof, attic, and visible insulation
• walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors
• foundation, basement, and structural components

Depending on the size and condition of the home, typical inspections take 2-3 hours to complete.

Buying a home may be the largest single investment one will ever make. Homebuyers should learn as much as they can about the house before buying it to minimize surprises and unexpected difficulties.

A home inspection may identify builder oversights, the need for major repairs, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. Through the home inspection process, homebuyers will have a better understanding of their prospective house, allowing them to make informed decisions with confidence.

If a homeowner is planning to sell their home, a home inspection can allow them to address repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

It is not required for the homebuyer to be present for the home inspection. However, the American Society of Home Inspectors recommends being present to receive the most value from the inspection. This gives the homebuyers the opportunity to observe the inspector and ask questions throughout the process.

Many homebuyers find that talking with their inspectors gives them a better understanding of the home’s condition and how to best maintain it.

A professional home inspection is an objective assessment of the current condition of a house. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house but instead, describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems need major repair or replacement. A home inspection is not a municipal inspection and will not verify local code compliance.

It is important to point out that no house is perfect. Every home inspection will identify any issues with the house and the inspector will communicate the severity of the problems found. The home inspector's goal is to leave their clients with a deeper understanding of their prospective home, so the client can make an informed decision as they continue their home-buying process. The inspector's role is not to tell the clients if they should buy the house but to help them understand additional ownership costs.

You will receive your home inspection report and wood-destroying insect report (if requested) by the end of the next business day after your inspection date. Radon tests take 48 hours to complete, so you will receive that by the end of the business day on the indicated pick-up date. All reports are emailed directly to the client’s email address provided.

To learn more about the American Society of Home Inspectors (AHSI) and Radon:

• ASHI Standards of Practice - https://www.homeinspector.org/Resources/Standard-of-Practice
• ASHI Code of Ethics - https://www.homeinspector.org/Resources/Code-Of-Ethics
• Information on Radon - https://www.epa.gov/radon