1.
The inspection process begins with you. At first contact, we gather basic information about the property such as, the size, location, age, type of foundation, etc. Next we process your payment, schedule the appointment, and initialize the inspection software with that information. Then we email to you, a clickable link where
you can read and agree to the pre- inspection agreement. This is all
done quickly and conveniently online. There is no need to download documents, sign, scan, or fax
back anything; or loose time and money from work, and waste gas, to meet with the inspector at the property. Just click to agree.
2.
Next, we look up the property on the mls to get a preview, a copy of the seller's disclosure if available, communicate with the Realtors for access and other information. Then we map out the directions, gather, prepare, and load up the tools and equipment. I pack or purchase food, water, ice, and fuel; then head out to the property. This can take 2 to 4 hours.
3.
I start inspecting upon arrival. A typical 2000 square foot house takes about 3-4 hours of field work. A 4000 square foot house takes twice as long. Foreclosures and distressed properties require even more time. The field inspection is a data collection event. Hundreds of items and components are being checked. Notes are being created via photos and written comments. No conclusions are being drawn. Only after the report has been completed do I, and often times, can I, make a professional opinion about an issue.
4.
Now back at the office; I download the photos and notes, and begin creating the report. At this point, the property is being re-inspected. Initial impressions about some major issues can change as the dots are being connected. Some situations are unique or uncommon, and additional research may be needed to provide the best guidance and comment. Report writing usually takes about 4-8 hours or more, depending on the condition of the property. Please allow up to two business days for the report to be completed. Distressed properties can take longer.
5.
When the report is completed. It's proof read, uploaded to a secure server, and notifications are sent. This takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The total time required to inspect a well kept 2000 square foot home can be 10 to 16 hours. Considering our inspection fee on any level is an outstanding value. If it were by the hour, the fee would be $750 to $1200. That would still be a fraction of the cost of just one or two repairs that may be needed.
DO I NEED TO BE AT THE INSPECTION?
No. Sometimes the buyer, seller, Realtor, or visitor may want to be at the inspection to see what's going on and ask questions. I tend to discourage that because, it is a distraction. This is time paid for by my client, to allow me the time I need to stay keenly focused on the hundreds of items that I’m looking for and checking. Some items may not even be present. I don't inspect one thing at a time and form an opinion. It would take days to inspect a property that way. I'm multi-tasking and checking several systems simultaneously. If my concentration is broken, then comments can be mis-stated. And also by law, and reservation, I may only make comments about the inspection to my client.
Showing and telling during the inspection is double work and counter productive. It increases the time required to perform the inspection. This increases the fee to my client because, I have to stop inspecting the property, and start showing issues that I’ve already found. These things will be outlined in the report with photos. The report will clearly show and tell all of the issues. I recommend allowing me to do the job that I’m paid to do first, then after the report has been completed, and reviewed, is the time to ask all the questions you may have. I strongly encourage it. I’m always glad to answer your questions after the report has been reviewed. There is no additional fee for that.
On the other hand, sometimes a client may feel they really want or need to be at the inspection. In that case, please come. You are welcomed. The first 15 minutes is free! Then an additional charge of $50 per half hour applies.
PUBLIC COMMENT
As you see, to do a proper inspection takes a lot of work and time. It is really a project.
It is physically and mentally exhaustive. This process is what
distinguishes us from other inspection companies. The secret is hard
work. The end product is a comprehensive, detailed, organized,
photographic inspection report that is easy to read. It will clearly
show all the issues, if any, of the subject property. Our report makes
it easy for all parties to see and discuss the items that are a concern.
We are proud, and honored, to provide this type of product and
information to the general public. Please take advantage of it by
referring us to a friend or calling us for your next inspection.