How long does an inspection take?

Anywhere from 1.5 hours for a small condo to 6 or 8 hours for a large home. A typical 2000 sq. ft. home built in the 90’s or later will take around 3.5 hours including a discussion at the end of the inspection with the client.

The Inspection Report

Reports are computer generated. This allows us to provide you with a large amount of information in a reasonable amount of time. It also makes the report easy to read since you don’t have to read your inspectors handwriting. Having  computer generated report also makes it easy to share with anyone who needs it.

The report contains a thorough documentation of all the inspection findings. Also included are pictures of selected conditions that make understanding the condition easier.

Report Delivery

Reports are usually delivered via email before your inspector goes to bed the night of the inspection. If you have other needs, please let us know.

Attending the Inspection

You are welcome to be present during the entire inspection. However, most people choose to arrive toward the end of the inspection. Most of the time your inspector will be testing outlets, opening and closing doors and windows, running sinks, tubs, etc. Since any findings from these tests will be documented in the report, and discussed with you at the end of the inspection, it’s usually not a valuable use of your time.

Also, in order for you to receive the best inspection it’s a good idea not to distract your inspector with questions about areas of the home different from where the inspector is working. If you have questions, write them down and ask them when the inspector discusses his findings with you.

Another thing to consider is that the inspection period provides you with some time to spend in the home. More time than you likely spent when you first looked at it. It’s also a good time to take measurements of rooms, windows, etc. Don’t forget your tape measure and camera!

Questions

We are committed to answering all of your questions. This usually happens at the end of the inspection before we leave the home. However if you have any questions after the inspection feel free to call us.

Winterized Homes

If the home is winterized (no water running in the home), take the time to learn about your options by reading the article about winterized homes here.

Cost of Inspections

Cost of inspections depends on several factors like type, size, age, features, and location of the home. Please call our office for a quote on your exact home. 

Preparing for the Inspection

There isn’t anything you need to do to prepare for the inspection itself. But be sure to learn about options to the inspection mentioned above.

Thing you might want to bring to the inspection include:

1. 1. Tape measure
   2. Camera
   3. Note pad
   4. Pen

You won’t need to take notes on the inspection findings. That will be included in the report.

Another thing you should consider is whether to have the sewer line between the home and the city sewer video scoped. You can read an article about sewer scoping here.

Scheduling Other Trades During the Inspection

It is preferable to not have any other trades people (contractor, architect, etc.) at the home during the inspection. That way you won’t feel stressed out by being pulled between talking either party. Also, the inspector likely has other appointments after your inspection and hence has limited time with you. Make the most of it.

Limited Troubleshooting

Since the time allotted for your inspection is limited we focus on discovery of conditions over troubleshooting conditions as they are found.

Insurance Coverage

Abacus Inspection Service carries general and professional liability insurance.

Standards

American Association of Home Inspectors (ASHI) standards of practice.