FAQ’s
Q. How long does a home inspection take?
A. A quality Home Inspection usually takes 2 to 3 hours depending on size, age, and condition. We offer same day reports, so you can have the information needed to make an informed decision quickly.
Q. Why should I have a home inspection?
A. Having a home inspected is a visual check-up of items and components that would take a homeowner 1-2 years to get to. You are encouraged to follow the inspector, he will explain what conditions he is finding with your home. He can let you know the priorities of what needs repaired now and what can wait to be monitored.
Q. What’s included in a home inspection?
A. Home inspection components can be broken down to interior and exterior areas.
INTERIOR COMPONENTS - HEATING, PLUMBING, ELECTRICAL VISIBLE PIPING, FAUCETS, AND FIXTURES ATTIC AREA, CRAWL/BASEMENT AREA, KITCHEN WALLS, FLOORS, CEILING, WINDOWS
EXTERIOR COMPONENTS ROOF, CHIMNEY, FLASHING, VALLEYS SIDING, TRIM, WINDOWS AND STORM WINDOWS DRIVEWAYS, PATIOS, DECKS, PORCHES EXTERIOR A/C UNIT, HEAT PUMP
Q. How soon will I get my inspection report?
A. We deliver same-day reports. The report comes via email in web-based and PDF versions. With an easy-to-read, clean layout that is mobile-friendly including HD photos and videos showing inspection defects. Some ancillary services like Radon testing can take 48 hours for the test results. Water quality testing can take up to a week for the lab to have the results.
Q. Should I attend the home inspection?
A. Yes, you should definitely attend the home inspection if at all possible. We always suggest that you accompany us on the inspection for the last part to answer any questions that you may have. Here’s why: Why You Should Be There:
1. See Issues Firsthand It’s one thing to read a report—it’s another to see a crack in the foundation or evidence of water damage in person. Our inspectors will walk you around to show you any issues while on-site.
2. Ask Questions in Real Time Our Inspectors can explain potential issues and whether they’re major concerns or minor fixes and improvement items, and recommend which contractor to contact for further evaluation.
3. Learn How the House Works A good inspector will show you how systems like HVAC, water shut-off valves, and electrical panels work. This is useful even if you’re not handy.
4. Understand the Report Better Being present helps you make sense of the report later, since you’ll already have context.
Q. Can a home inspector estimate repair costs?
A. A home inspector typically cannot provide official repair cost estimates, because there are lots of variables that may need further evaluation and a contractor to bid based on materials, location, and the scope of work. But we can help direct you to our trusted contractors for a quote for the repairs needed. We also pair with a third-party company that can do estimates based off our reports at Repair Pricer.
Q. Can a home fail an inspection?
A. No, a home doesn’t “fail” inspection — but the findings may lead to renegotiation, repair requests, or a canceled deal. Home inspections are not pass/fail. The inspector’s job is to report on the condition of the home, not to grade it or approve it. Our goal is to help give you a better idea of what you are purchasing, selling, or maintaining.
Q. Is a home inspection required in Oregon and Washington?
A. No — in both Oregon and Washington, a home inspection is not legally required in the real estate transaction. The home inspection is in the client’s best interest to get a better understanding of what they are buying or selling. Getting a quality home inspection done by a qualified licensed home inspector can help the client make an informed decision on what condition the property is in.
Q. Do I need a home inspection on new construction?
A. Yes - it’s strongly recommended. Here’s a few reasons why.
1. Builders Make Mistakes Even reputable builders can miss things, there’s lots of subcontractors on-site and many moving parts with one supervisor overseeing the whole project. Common issues are — miswired outlets, improper grading, unsealed windows, HVAC issues, missing insulation, etc. A third-party inspector may catch problems the city inspector didn’t.
2. Municipal Inspections Aren’t Comprehensive City or county building inspectors check for code compliance — not quality. Their inspections are brief, and they don’t test systems like a private inspector would.
3. Warranty Deadlines Most new homes come with a 1-year builder warranty. A private inspection (ideally before closing or before that warranty expires) can help you get repairs covered.
Q. Should I get a radon test in Washington or Oregon?
A. Yes — it’s a good idea to test for radon in Washington or Oregon. Radon exposure is a potential risk in certain areas, and the only way to know your specific risk is to test your home. Why testing is advised in both states-
• Radon is invisible, odorless, and it can travel through soil into buildings. Because of that, you can’t tell whether you have high levels just by “looking.”
• Both states explicitly encourage testing. When the state tests it logs the areas of higher average levels.
• Washington’s Department of Health emphasizes that “testing for radon is best practice and the first step for addressing indoor radon exposure.”
• Oregon’s health authorities also stress that “every home needs to be tested, regardless of where it is located,” noting that radon levels can vary dramatically even between neighboring homes.
• There is evidence of elevated radon in parts of both states. It’s recommended to test every 3 years per EPA suggestions. Radon.com is a great resource.
Q. Will a home inspection tell me if the roof needs to be replaced?
A. No - our job is to inform you of what we see at the time of the inspection. If there are any defects found, we will recommend a licensed roofer evaluate and repair/replace as needed. Here’s what a home inspector will do:
• Visually inspect the roof.
• Look for missing, curling, or damaged shingles, moss growth, rusted flashing, soft spots, or signs of water intrusion.
• Check the condition of gutters, downspouts, chimneys, and vent pipes.
• Inspect attic ceilings for moisture stains, organic growth, structural issues, or signs of leaking.