Frequently Asked Questions:
What Kind of report will i get?
Your report will have its own website which will make the report easy to navigate. The report can be viewed and saved in pdf format as well
When will I get the report?
Typically within 24 to 30 hours after the completion of the inspection. Rush services are available if needed.
Can I see a sample report?
YES! I recommend all clients ask this when deciding between the services of other home inspectors. Compare Apples to Apples.
How long does a home inspection take?
It depends on the age and size of the house. Typically for a 1500 sqft home built in the last 50 years, we are onsite with you for 2-3 hours.
Do you climb roofs?
Yes, when it is safe to do so and the pitch of the roof is not too steep. Ultimately, safety is our first concern. For roofs we can not safely walk or access, we use a telescopic pole camera and binoculars.
What do you charge for a home inspection?
That depends on the size, type and age of the home. Our home inspection services start at $695.00 Building consultations for investigation of issues such as water penetration are billed at $200.00 per hour with a two hour minimum.
When can i schedule the home inspection?
Our inspection time slots are typically 9:00 am and 1:30 pm Monday through Saturday. If these inspection start times do not work for your schedule, please call and we may be able to make special arrangements. Our online schedule is updated in real time. We often can accommodate your schedule if it appears that we do not have time slots open, just ask!!!!
Are you Licensed, Certified, or Insured?
Yes, we hold Home Inspection Licenses in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. We are ASHI Certified Inspectors and Commercial Property Inspectors. We are insured above the State mandated minimum.
How are you different? What makes you better than the competition?
Our vast and varied experience in the construction field spans over 25 years. Nothing supplants hands on experience in the field. We have built, renovated, and repaired residential buildings and supervised commercial building projects. Our communication is clear and can be tailored to the needs to the client. As a teacher, a former high school coach, and a union negotiator, John prides himself on his communication skills and his patience making sure his clients’ concerns are addressed.
I found someone who can do the inspection for a lower fee. Why does he charge less than you?
Not all inspectors share the same experience or thoroughly document defects found in the home in the same way. For example, all school teachers, carpenters, or real estate agents are licensed by the state, but their skills, knowledge, and approach vary greatly. Licensed Home Inspectors have the same variation in skills, experience and competency.
Who sees the report?
YOU and only the people you authorize! The Inspection Report belongs to you. You may share the report with whomever you like, including your Real Estate Attorney, your family and friends, or your Real Estate Agent or the seller. We send the report to YOU ONLY, and the website format affords you to easily share it with anyone. Confidentiality is of the utmost importance to us.
What other services do you provide?
We offer radon testing, thermal imaging, and water testing. We also can provide the names of vendors that can assist you with other inspection needs such as Lead, Mold, Asbestos, EMF, and Structural Engineering.
Do you report on the cost to correct any defects found in the home?
Unfortunately, no. The state regulations C.M.R. 266 forbid Home Inspectors from providing cost estimates for repairs. For accurate cost estimates, you will need to contact contractors in the appropriate field.
Can the report be transferred to anyone else for their use?
Only with your consent and permission.
Does the seller have to fix all the things you find in the Home Inspection?
No they do not. This report is for your information and the seller is typically not obligated to “fix” issues discovered in the report. The information can be shared with your real estate agent and they will provide recommendations on how to best utilize the information.
How should I negotiate with the seller after the Home Inspection?
This is the role of your Real Estate Agent. Communicate your priorities and biggest concerns to your Agent and they can then navigate any negotiations that may arise.
SHould I be present at the inspection? Can I follow you around and ask questions?
ABSOLUTELY!!! We welcome questions and enjoy including you in the process of a home inspection.
I can’t come to the inspection, is that OK?
It is strongly recommended that you do. If you can not attend the inspection, you should have a trusted representative attend the inspection in your place. If this is not possible, we can still work with you and your Real Estate Agent.
Do you perform a pest inspection?
Yes, we can inspect for Wood Destroying Insects / Organisms.
What about mold? Do you inspect for or test for mold?
No. We look for the conditions that often contribute to the presence of microbial growth. We report on and photograph any material that looks like “mold” and or the conditions that can promote mold growth. We we come across issues of concern, we will recommend a mold and/or indoor air quality specialist. Testing the home for mold is beyond the scope of a home inspection. To officially determine if a substance is mold, a laboratory test is required. If you have a particular allergy to mold, we recommend that you have an indoor air quality test performed on your prospective home even if no signs of mold were observed during the inspection.
Do you test for lead in paint used in the home or the presence of asbestos?
Lead Testing and Asbestos material testing are not part of a home inspection. The testing for these materials are completed by licensed environmental professionals. Here are resources on Lead Paint https://www.mass.gov/service-details/learn-about-massachusetts-lead-law
and Asbestos http://pleuralmesothelioma.com/cancer/
Do you inspect recreation equipment, pools, saunas, hot tubs, or sheds?
No, these are not items that are part of a home inspection. Pool companies can inspect the pool equipment.