Your Questions, Answered
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A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of a home’s major systems and components. The inspector examines items such as the roof, structure, electrical system, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and interior components to identify defects, safety concerns, and maintenance issues. After the inspection, a comprehensive report of all of the findings is compiled and delivered to the client. A home inspection simply reports the condition of the home and identifies concerns. Every home has issues—even new ones. It is not a pass or fail test.
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Most homes have some issues. Buyers typically work with their real estate agent to decide whether to request repairs, ask for a credit, or continue with the purchase as‑is.
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Most inspections take 2-4 hours depending on the size, age, and condition of the home. 3 hours is a good average.
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Items the inspector will not evaluate include but are not limited to, pools/spas, water filtration systems, sprinkler systems, fences, outdoor recreational equipment, underground pipes, or local code compliance. Mold testing, radon testing, septic or well testing, and pest inspections (WDI) are available upon request.
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Yes. While it isn’t required, attending allows you to ask questions and see important findings firsthand.
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You will receive a link to your inspection report within 24 hours of the inspection. The report includes clear descriptions of findings, high-resolution photos, maintenance recommendations, safety concerns, and a summary highlighting the most important items.
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A home inspection helps buyers understand the condition of the home, avoid costly surprises, plan future maintenance, and make informed negotiation decisions.
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A pre-listing inspection can help sellers identify issues before listing, avoid surprises during negotiations, and help the closing process go more smoothly.
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For newly built homes with a one‑year builder warranty, an inspection around month 11 helps identify issues before the warranty expires.
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Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States according to the EPA. Testing is the only way to know the radon level in a home. Many counties in NE Ohio are considered to be radon hot spots by the EPA. The Radon test we administer typically takes around 48 hours. The EPA recommends mitigation if radon levels are 4.0 pCi/L or higher.
Each of our continuous radon measuring devices are recalibrated by an accredited lab annually and cross-checked semi-annually to ensure accurate readings. Additionally, the report is auto-generated and geo-located by the device and the reading is not alterable by the inspector.
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Mold testing may be recommended when there are visible signs of mold, musty odors, recent water intrusion, or health concerns from occupants.
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Inspectors walk the roof when it is safe to do so. If conditions are unsafe, the inspection will be done from a ladder.