Should I be present when the inspection takes place ?
Absolutely! I strongly encourage you and your spouse/partner to attend the inspection. I only ask that you allow me to arrive 1 or 2 hours earlier than you. This would allow me to make the 1st pass of the house, taking notes and finding the crucial elements of the house (i.e. Gas and Water Shut-offs, Electrical Panel, etc). On the 2nd pass of the house, you and I will go over what was found during the 1st pass. Or, if you're unable to attend, I can do the inspection and then follow up with you in person else where, or by phone. When the inspection is complete, we'll go over the findings and I'll be more than happy to address any questions, issues or concerns you may have. In the case of a buyers inspection I do ask that you make other arrangements for your children, as they can be a distraction to both the inspector and yourself, as well as impose on the homeowner. What does a Home Inspection cover ?
A Lot. The inspection and report will cover components and areas to include the Interior, Exterior, Foundation, Garage, Water Heater, Kitchen, Bedrooms, Bathrooms, Roof, Chimney, Electrical, Kitchen, Laundry, Stairs, Heating & Cooling, Plumbing, Attic, Fences & Gates, Driveways, Walkways, Decks, Patios, Drainage and more.
How long does a Home Inspection take ?
A Few Hours. Typically, you can expect a minimum of 2 1/2 hours. Some homes can take as long as 4, 5, and 6 hours, or even more. The age and how well the home was maintained both determine how long the inspection will take. Older homes that have not been well maintained will take longer than newer homes that have. Regardless, I'll be there until it's completed.
When can I expect the completed report ?
Quickly. I'll be working on your report the same day of the inspection, and will have it ready for you that evening, or no later than the following day. Depending on the condition of the house could be a factor. You'll be sent an E-mail with a link to your Home Inspection Report. Once your report opens, you can save or print it. With your authorization, the Real Estate Agents involved will also receive a copy. Can a Home Inspection fail ?
NO. A Home Inspection is not a Pass or Fail examination. It sole purpose is to enlighten the Buyer, or Seller, of the current conditions of the house. Remember, there is no such thing as a perfect house, ... Even with newer homes. All homes have areas of concern. Keep in mind that everything can be repaired. The Home Inspection will assist you in making that decision of whether or not you want to be responsible for making the repairs, or negotiating a price reduction. It's my job to point them out to you so you can make an informed decision.
Will you tell me whether or not I should buy the home ?
NO. As a Home Inspector I must adhere to Standards of Practice. My job is to point out areas of concern, as well as strong points of the home. The decision of whether to buy or not is strictly up to you.
Do you recommend contractors, give bids on repairs or do repairs yourself ?
NO. You should be wary of any Home Inspector who does. To do so, would be a Conflict of Interest. Roberts Home Inspection Service adheres strictly to the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics set forth by the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors. A fair and unbiased inspection is the result.
Who pays for the repairs that you find in your report ?
That Depends. The "Who pays for What" depends on you and your Realtor. Normally, it's up too your Realtor, and the Sellers Realtor, to negotiate a Sales Price for the home based on what discrepancies or positive attributions the house may have. This is beyond the scope of a Home Inspector. I will offer no opinion or advice in this matter. To remain objective and avoid a possible Conflict of Interest, I do not involve myself in any aspect of the purchase decision and/or repairs of the house.
When are you able to perform an inspection ?
Within 48 Hours. Due to the busy schedules of Realtors, Clients, Sellers and Buyers, Roberts Home Inspection Service is available 7 days a week. Keep in mind that Home Inspections do need to be performed during daylight hours. Or, at least have the exterior inspected prior to sunset. The interior can then be inspected after sunset.
What is the fee for an inspection ?
Reasonable. The fee(s) for a Home inspection depends on a number of factors. Size, age, components of the home, if there's a pool or spa to be inspected and whether it has a detached living quarters and/or barn, etc. After a few brief questions over the phone I'll be able to quote you my fee. Remember, a few hundred dollars spent wisely, could end up saving you thousands of dollars in the long run.
My Uncle Bill is a handy man. Why can't he inspect the house ? 
Experience. I'm sure that your Uncle Bill is a very nice guy. Unfortunately, a lot of the problems and safety issues I find with homes are the results of "Uncle Bill's" handiwork.
I am an experienced Home Inspector who has undergone training in the field of Home Inspection and am dedicated to continuing education and research. I combine this knowledge with a systematic approach and specialized tools to produce an unbiased, complete and thorough report on your home's condition.
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