LET’S TAKE THE MYSTERY OUT OF THE HOME INSPECTION PROCESS
How Do I Prepare for an Inspection?
Here are a few helpful tips if you are preparing to have your own home inspected.
What Should I Expect During a Home Inspection?
We will talk through all aspects of your home, and inspect each thoroughly.
How Do I Schedule My Inspection?
If you are ready to schedule your inspection we have an online scheduling tool for you to get on our books whenever you are ready!
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a nonbiased examination of the structures and systems of a home, from the foundation to the roof.
Do I need a home inspection?
Buying your home is the biggest investment most of us will make. A home inspection will review all major components of the home, which will give you valuable information on what you are buying. Is the home really in as good of shape as it appears? Are there costly repairs that you can learn about before purchase? All these are good reason for a home inspection.
Why is there a difference in the fees of various inspectors?
"You get what you pay for." When you are making such a large investment, the experience of your home inspector is crucial. Usually, the cheapest inspectors are the new inspectors. The lowest priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. When making this major purchase, a quality inspector is a good choice.
WHAT are the smoke alarm requirements in oregon?
Oregon laws require that all homes being sold or rented need to have working smoke alarms. A smoke alarm is needed on each level (including basements), and within 21 feet of bedroom doors. (In each sleeping room per the requirements of the applicable building codes at the time of construction.) We recommend a smoke alarm in each bedroom regardless of the time of construction. Read More
what are the carbon monoxide requirements in oregon?
Oregon laws require all homes being sold or rented to have working CO alarms, if they meet any of the following:
Homes that contain a CO source.
In 2011 or newer homes, regardless of the presence of a CO source, a CO detector must be installed.
Existing home undergoes reconstruction, alteration, or repair in which a building permit is required, must have a CO alarm.
CO Alarms must be installed on each floor a bedroom is located. In each bedroom or within 15 feet outside the bedroom door. Read More
Who pays for a home inspection?
Generally, the buyer usually pays for the home inspection, however, it is getting more common for the seller to get a pre-listing home inspection.
Can I do the home inspection myself?
Generally, this is not recommended. Professional home inspectors have extensive training and experience in home inspecting, and usually a building background. Even if you are a home inspector, it is not recommended that you do your own inspection, because you are no longer unbiased.
How long will a home inspection take?
Generally, expect about three hours. Maybe a little less, possibly a few minutes more. If you find a home inspector that says they will do the inspection in two hours or less, I'd recommend to call another inspector. NOTE: condominiums and small town homes will likely take less time.
Can I go along with the home inspector during the inspection?
If you want to come along, you are always welcome. That being said, we prefer to do the inspection, focusing 100% on your home, then walk through the home with you towards the end. Once again though, if you wish to hang with us as we inspect, you are welcome to come along.
Can a home fail an inspection?
No. Our job is to give you a fair and impartial overview of all visible components of the home. It is then your job, along with your realtor, to review the report and decide if you want to move forward. We are happy to clarify and give our opinion as to defects in the home, but the decision is yours.
What happens if there are issues found during the inspection?
Once the inspection is done, and you've received the report, this is the time to sit down with your realtor, look over the defects as well as the costs to repair, and make a decision. No houses are perfect and the inspector will find problems. Most problems can be taken care of by a licensed handyman. Some may require a licensed roofer, contractor or plumber. Between your realtor and yourself, you will decide any issues you would like taken care of, then how they will be taken care of. Usually, by a credit, or by the seller taking care of the problem and giving you all receipts, warranties, etc. It is important that all work be done by licensed contractors.
Why don't you provide your inspection report on site?
Our job is to inspect your home. We won't give you a generic report with boxes checked, in a three ring binder as soon as the inspection is over. You will get a thorough inspection report (within 24 hours) written by your inspector. It takes some time to sit down, organize your photos, and write out the report so that it's easy to follow and understand. Our goal is to write the report as if we were doing an inspection for a friend or family member. Sometimes we spend as much time writing the report as we spend on the inspection. Although we say you will receive your report within 24 hours, it is usually in your email inbox that evening or first thing in the morning.
Just what do you inspect?
We will look at structural components including foundation, floors, walls, piers, ceilings, and roofs. We will enter crawlspaces, access the attic, check visible flashings, decks, eaves, soffits, vegetation, grading, drainage, driveways, patios, retaining walls and walkways. We will observe all visible plumbing, water heaters, electrical service entrance, electrical panel, ceiling fans, light fixtures, GFCI protected receptacles, smoke and CO alarms, furnace and heating equipment, AC equipment, walls, ceilings, steps, stairways, railings, counters, cabinets, doors, windows, visible insulation and ventilation, dishwasher, range, cooktop, oven, garbage disposal, installed microwave, and refrigerators. Whew! All this in under three hours!
Oregon Home Inspector Standards of Behavior and Standards of Practice Administrative Rules.