FAQs

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. The standard home inspector's report will include an evaluation of the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure.

The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy, so that you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards. Of course, an inspection will also point out positive aspects of a home, as well as some maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase, and will be able to make a confident buying decision. If you have owned your home for a long time, an inspection can identify problems in the making and recommend preventive measures which might avoid costly future repairs. In addition, home sellers may opt for having an inspection prior to placing the home on the market to gain a better understanding of conditions which the buyer's inspector may point out. This provides an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

The cost of an inspection varies based upon a number of factors, including size, age, special services requested, etc. However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. Rather, you should consider the inspection as an investment that will pay for itself many times over. You do not want the life-changing decision of buying a home to be something to regret.

Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge, objectivity and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected thousands of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with all the elements of home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate picture, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of inspection.

No. A professional inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition.

A home inspector is typically called right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

It's not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is recommended that you be present for the inspection. By observing and asking questions at the wrap-up, you will learn a great deal about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain it. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you've seen the property first-hand through the inspector's eyes.

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with peace of mind about the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned a few things about your new home from the inspector's report, and will want to keep that information for future reference. Above all, you can feel assured that you are making a well-informed purchase decision, and that you will be able to enjoy your new home the way you want to.

Although builders do offer a warranty on their home, it is up to the buyer to identify problems to be corrected by the builder. Generally, builders allow the buyer to complete a walk through inspection to identify cosmetic concerns that are readily visible to the new homeowner. A professional inspection identifies functional problems related to the major systems that would not be identified during the walkthrough inspection. For example, is there sufficient insulation in the attic, are the electrical plugs wired properly and GFCI protected where required, roof issues, structural problems, etc. The new home inspection allows you to correct problems under the builder warranty, save you costly repairs and to provide you with peace of mind after you move in and when you eventually sell the house.

Modern homes are equipped with sewer access points known as cleanouts. Cleanouts are specifically designed with the intention to allow access to the main and secondary lines to “clean out” potential blockages and clogs. These access points also allow for the usage of cameras to inspect the drain lines. Older homes have larger roof vents intended for accessing the main sewer line in the event of a clog or issue.

Sewer systems are often out of sight and out of mind—until a problem arises. When left undetected, sewer line issues can lead to costly repairs, major inconvenience, and serious damage to the home. These problems aren’t limited to older properties; they can occur in homes of any age, including new construction. Even homes with septic systems should have their sewer lines scoped to ensure everything is functioning properly.  

• Root intrusion 
• Cracked/damaged pipes 
• Rust/scale 
• Belly/sagging pipes 
• Sludge buildup 
• Offsets/shifted pipes 
• Improper installation 
• Foreign objects/construction debris   
• Orangeburg (recalled piping material)

Root intrusions are one of the most common issues found in sewer lines. In any occupied home, the drainage system carries a steady flow of water—something roots naturally seek out. Over time, they can penetrate small cracks or seams in the pipes to access this moisture.

Once inside, roots can clog the line or cause structural damage to the pipe itself. Hydro jetting is often a cost-effective, temporary solution to clear out root intrusions, though full sewer line repair or replacement may eventually be necessary.

Older homes with outdated sewer materials are more prone to root intrusion. As metal pipes corrode and weaken over time, roots can enter through rusted openings.

Clay and concrete pipes are installed in short sections with many joints—typically sealed with thin rubber gaskets. Once these wear out, they create multiple entry points for roots.

Root intrusions are also common at pipe transitions, where rubber couplings can loosen or deteriorate over time, creating another pathway for growth.  Once roots are present in a sewer line, they will continue to grow until the pipe becomes damaged and/or fully blocked.