1. The inspection process begins with a call to our office or an email. We are also available by phone evenings and weekends.
   
   
2. We schedule your inspection with the seller’s listing company and confirm the appointment with you and your agent.
   
   
3. We will email (or fax or mail) a copy of our contract in advance so that you may call us if you have any questions.  You also may view it here.
   
   
4. The inspection itself typically takes 3-4 hours depending on the size and condition of the property, and you are welcome to accompany the inspector.  In most cases, the buyer joins the inspector for the last hour to walk through the home and discuss any property concerns, location and operation of controls, remodel plans, etc. In the event you are not able to attend the inspection, we are happy to provide the electronic version, we can print and mail a hard copy, and we are available in the evening for a phone consultation to discuss the findings.
   
   
5. During the inspection, we look at all the major systems, including:

(The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) offers a 'virtual' home inspection here -- where you can learn about the home inspection process.)

~ Roof (shingles, flashings, chimneys, vents, trim and gutters, drip edges, skylights, downspouts, and other visible roof related items)		~ Attics (insulation, ventilation, rafters, joists and collar ties, trusses, wiring attachments, and other visible related items)
~ Plumbing and Fixtures (water pressure, water distribution system, hose bibs, sinks and faucets, bath/showers and toilets, sanitary system, and other plumbing system components)		~ Interior (floors and ceilings, walls, stairs and banisters, finishes, sinks, cabinets, shelving, built-in appliances, smoke detectors and safety-related items, and other visible interior-related components)
~ Heating and Cooling Systems (furnace, air cleaning parts, ductwork, electronic monoxide testing, electric gas sniffer testing, air conditioner and lines, and other visible related HVAC components)		~ Electrical Systems (service entry and clearances, service panel, switches and outlets, visible wiring and junction boxes, grounding system, and other related electrical components)
~ Basements, Crawl Spaces, and Foundation (insulation, ventilation, posts, vapor barriers, utility attachment, structural items, floors and walls, and columns)		~ Exterior (siding materials, attachments, windows, doors, sashes and lintels, vents, entryways, and other visible exterior related components)
~ Environmental Issues ~ Decks and Porches ~ Fireplaces ~ Overall Structure

6.		At the conclusion of the inspection, we provide a written copy of the analysis of the major systems and components in your home. The report includes a clear description AND PHOTOS of what we have found, with problem areas noted, so you may easily identify them. We also give you additional helpful information including a maintenance guide, pre-closing walk-through check list, and an “owner’s manual” for your new home.
7.		Back at the office, we email your report so that you and your real estate agent have access to an electronic version of the information.
8.		After the Inspection – Conditions can and do change between the inspection and closing. Our “Pre-Closing Inspection Form” will serve as a guide and help you to document any changes that have occurred – expected or not. Of course, you are always welcome to call with any questions.