Frequently Asked Questions
The following are samples of common questions regarding home inspections:
1. How long does a home inspection take?
a. Typical home inspections will take 5+ hours depending on various criteria including size, age of home and other factors.
2. How much does a home inspection cost?
a. Since no 2 homes are exactly the same our pricing schedule varies on various different criteria and complexity.
3. What does a typical home inspection include?
a. Our inspection services are non invasive, not technically exhaustive report that is a visual inspection of structural elements and systems that are readily accessible. These would typically include from the ground up:
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Grounds, Driveways, Patios, Porches, Steps, Balconies Retaining Walls & Landscaping as they pertain to the foundation.
Foundations, Basement and Crawl Spaces
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Structural Framing
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Roofing, Skylights, venting etc...
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Exteriors including Chimneys, Gutters, Eaves Troughs, Down Spouts, Siding, Soffits, Fascia and Flashings, Caulking, Doors, Windows, Screens and Storms etc...
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Electrical Service and Systems.
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Water Service and Plumbing Systems.
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Heating & Air Conditioning Systems.
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Garage
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Interiors including Permanent counter tops and cabinets, floors, ceilings, walls, stairs and balconies, interior windows, smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors etc...
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Appliances
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Attics
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Ventilation
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Insulation
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Fireplaces
Your inspection service will also include a Summary that will hi light items that were not operating, any potential significant issues/ defects, potential safety hazards and maintenance items that might require repair or replacement anytime during the next five years.
4. Do I have to be present for my home inspection?
a. No. But we highly encourage your presence as our primary focus is to educate you on the current condition of the home that your are about to purchase. This also allows time for all of your questions regarding the inspection, how various systems function and any maintenance concerns that you may have. Additionally, the home inspection report and summary will be easier to understand.
5. What happens if the home inspection report discovers problems?
a. The report findings serve as a guide to the current status/ condition of the property. This serves to educate both the buyer and the seller. If issues are discovered, it does not mean that that you should not buy the home, it means that both buyer and seller are completely aware of the any problems. This can lead to price adjustments made by the seller. The buyer will find this information very valuable during the negotiation process.
6. What is the difference between home inspection, appraisal and building inspection?
a. A home inspection is a non invasive, not technically exhaustive report that is a visual inspection of structural elements and systems that are readily accessible. An appraisal determines market value of the property. A municipal building inspection verifies compliance to local and state building codes and standards.
7. Do you have the Standards of Practice available? And what do they include?
a. Yes. Click here to view Standards of Practice.
8. Do home inspections "kill deals"?
a. Home inspections summarize the current condition of the property and point out the need of repairs or future maintenance. Both buyers and sellers need accurate information in order to make informed decisions. This is a main reason why that home inspections are performed by professional unbiased inspectors that are not connected to the sale of the property.
9. Why should I test for Radon?
a. Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. Radon typically moves up through the ground into the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation and through well water. Your home can trap the radon inside.
Any home can have a radon problem. That means both new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, homes with or without basements. In fact, you and your family are most likely to get your greatest radiation exposure at home as that is where you send the most time.
EPA and the Surgeon General recommend that you test your home. Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk.
The U.S. Surgeon General issued this health advisory in January 2005;
"Indoor radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and breathing it over prolonged periods can present a significant health risk of families all over the country. It's important to know that this threat is completely preventable. Radon can be detected with a simple test and fixed through well-established venting techniques."
10. What kind of report will I get after the inspection and are pictures included?
a. You will be emailed the report. Digital pictures are essential in the documentation process of the condition of your home. They will be downloaded on to the lap top computer and added to the inspection report as needed.
11. What if I have questions after the inspection?
a. Customer Service is our top priority at Wisconsin Inspection Services & Consulting, LLC. Our aim is to provide superior customer service before, during and after the inspection. Feel free to contact us with any questions. A wise man once said "there are no dumb questions except the ones that don't get asked".
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