True Home Inspections makes the process of buying or selling a home easier. Buyers want to know that the home is safe, structurally, and mechanically sound. Our home inspector's visual evaluation provides a solid foundation of knowledge about a home, its components, and systems. In addition to reporting any deficiencies or potential failures, our home inspector includes maintenance tips and other information to help protect a home buyer's investment.
A home inspection is a visual process where all of the items typically used within a home are tested and/or operated to verify proper operation or installation. Doors and windows are opened and closed, roofing materials inspected, air-conditioning and heating systems operated. The Inspector will fill the sinks and tub(s), run the shower(s), and flush the toilets. All the while making notes on the condition and operation of the components tested. Upon completion, a report will be distributed to you.
Exterior - We check the home’s exterior including grading around the home, retaining walls, fences, gates, driveways and walkways, decks and patios, porches and porch structures (including foundations and mechanical connections), steps and stairs, walls, trim, fascia and soffits, doors, windows, and trim. We note proximity of trees and tree roots, and also look at adjoining properties for similar conditions.
Crawl Space - In houses with a first-floor that is elevated above grade, the inspectors will enter the crawl space (where accessible and safe) and examine foundation piers, structural connections, beams and floor joists, exposed utilities, insulation, ventilation, and check for signs of moisture damage.
Structure - We do a complete visual inspection of the entire structure. The inspectors look for signs of moisture intrusion at walls, windows, and eaves, and evaluate cracks and other visible structural defects. An infrared camera and moisture meter is used as part of this process.
Interior Rooms - We walk through all interior rooms and check for signs of water damage or other problems. The inspector also tests all windows and doors, and examines screens. We test any major appliances that convey with the sale using normal operating controls.
Garage - Exterior and interior inspection of the garage. We test the garage door opener for required safety controls and operation. We check for safety precautions such as firewalls and self closing occupancy doors.
Attic - The inspectors enter the attic (where accessible and safe) and check for signs of structural problems, such as damaged trusses, undersized structural components, and damaged sheathing. We document roof tie-down connections, insulation type and R-value, and ventilation system. Attic stairs are examined for proper installation and function.
Roof - The condition of the roof is the #1 concern of most homebuyers. We walk the roof when safe and accessible, and report on the condition, estimated age, and any observable defects. For asphalt shingle roofs, we inspect for correct slope, granular loss, and tab adhesion. We examine flashings for proper installation at skylights, roof-to-wall connections, chimneys, and roof edge. We determine if electric service masts and plumbing vent pipes are properly waterproofed. We check for correct panel installation on metal roofs, including edge overhang, penetration waterproofing, screw spacing, and dissimilar metals. We estimate the age of the roof and its likely additional life. We provide a thorough inspection of all roofing types. Because we are licensed home inspectors, we can also provide a “roof certification letter” to certify the condition of the roof when requested by your insurance company. We check for evidence of poor drainage, leakage, and debris in gutters and downspouts. We use an infrared camera throughout the interior to help detect any hidden signs of moisture intrusion.
Electrical - We open the cover on the main (and secondary if present) electrical panel to check for signs of defective or amateur wiring. We also check wiring and fixtures throughout the house with a circuit analyzer and report ungrounded or reverse polarity outlets, defective or damaged wiring, and test ground-fault-circuit-interrupters, switches, smoke alarms and ceiling fans. AFCIs and doorbell are also tested.
Plumbing - We check the water supply, waste, and vent pipes for visible signs of leaking or other defects. (Please keep in mind that we cannot see under concrete slabs). We check the water heater for safety issues and signs of deficiencies, and determine it’s age, capacity, and condition. We confirm that the water pressure is sufficient for normal use, and check kitchen and bath fixtures for proper operation or damage.
Air Conditioning and Heating - We operate the system, check filters, ducts and registers, test it for proper installation and operation, and determine age, capacity, and condition of system. We measure the differentials between the supply and return to check for efficiency.
Appliances - We examine and test all major laundry and kitchen appliances that are installed and convey with the sale, running them through a short cycle and checking safety features.
Irrigation System - We test the system in manual mode for function in each zone, looking for broken, damaged or leaking heads, and any areas of overspray onto house walls.
Mobile Homes - In addition to all of the major systems of the home, we evaluate the current condition and safety of the crawlspace and tie-downs.