What exactly is a home inspection and why do I need one?
A home inspection is an important process whereby all accessible elements of the home are checked by a qualified individual, rated on a specific scale, and further commented upon when necessary for clarification. A home inspection may be required by your lender, but more importantly, knowing that your new home has been professionally inspected gives you peace of mind.
What is Radon, and does it really pose a risk to my family?
Radon is an invisible, radioactive gas that has been found in houses all over the US. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. The Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high. If levels of 4 pcl. (pico curies per liter) or higher are detected, remediation would be highly recommended. 90% of the time the seller would pay for this process.
What happens if termites or other wood destroying insects are found during the inspection?
As long as the damage is visible, the inspector will notify you of the extent of such visible damage and recommend treatment at that time. Depending upon the extent of the damage, other trades may be required to perform repairs. Eagle Eye neither treats nor repairs any home it inspects, insuring that your termite inspection is free of bias.
Should I be concerned with qualifications?
Absolutely! The inspection field is not regulated by the state or any other government agencies. Basically anyone can inspect a home. That's why our inspectors are members of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), State licensed Radon Technicians and CERTIFIED BY THE STATE AS A PESTICIDE APPLICATOR.
Do I really need to be present at the time of the inspection?
No, but it is highly recommended. Not only do you get a first hand look at things you might not have thought were important, but if there are problems, they can be explained to you at that time, although the report is very detailed and our inspector will go over each and every page with you.
What can I expect in my report and when will I receive it?
Each accessible elements of the home will be rated Satisfactory, Acceptable, or Unsatisfactory and these terms are specifically defined for you within the report. Your inspector also provides a detailed commentary where necessary. We also provide a summary which is our inspector's detailed opinion of his most critical findings.
How much time do I need to allow in scheduling an inspection?
There should be a contingency clause in your contract for purchase that allows 10 to 15 working days for a home inspection to be performed. We can usually perform the inspection within a 3 - 6 days of your call.
Are there any instructions I should be aware of prior to an inspection?
Yes. If a radon test is being done, a closed-house condition must prevail for twelve hours prior to the placement of the radon monitoring system. This means that all window must be closed and no exhaust appliances can be used (i.e., attic fans). Heat or air conditioning can be used in a normal fashion, as can entrance doors (although they must not be left open). These conditions must remain in effect for 48 hours during which the monitoring system is placed.
Do you perform inspections for reasons other than real estate transactions?
Yes. Eagle Eye is often called upon to inspect for termite infestation alone, structural elements alone (such as leaking basements or damaged roofs) and performs radon testing alone as well. Prices for such inspections are adjusted accordingly.
Do you have a question? Please feel free to use our inquiry form. We would be glad to assist you in anyway possible!
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