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Tag Archives: home inspection

Categories Home Inspection

How to Tell a Great Inspector from a Bad One

home inspector

Not all home inspectors are created equal. If only it were as easy as opening up the phone book and selecting the first inspector on the list. Unfortunately, not all inspectors come with the same skill sets or best intentions.

To save you a headache and disadvantage of hiring a bad inspector, here’s how to identify a great inspector.

They Want You Around During the Inspection.

Requesting you to be present during an inspection is a profound sign of your inspector’s honesty. They’re clearly not trying to hide anything and want you to feel confident in their work.

It also allows full clarity on what the inspection covers, saving you both time in follow-up questions. If you decide to opt out of being present or are too busy, simply having the option is an immense comfort.

They Offer Sample Reports and References.

During the vetting process, the inspector offers a wealth of information and reviews, relevant to their work. Whether on their website or sent directly from the inspector, a trusted recommendation holds extreme value and credibility.

They Refer You to Online Reviews of Their Services

The best inspectors will refer prospects to their online reviews. The most reputable sources for reviews are Angie’s List, Yelp and Google. Read through at least a handful of reviews to gain a well-rounded understanding of who you’re doing business with.

They Offer Clear Expectations of What They Include in Your Inspection

Before paying for your services, you should have a clear cut agreement and understanding of what they include in their inspection. Your inspector will likely have a standard list of inclusions, but you can always ask for additional services at an extra cost.

They Have a Professional Website

The quality of a website says so much about the quality of the business. If their website is messy, disorganized and “amateur” in appearance, you can assume the same goes for their way of doing business.

An important area to check out is their contact info; do they have an office address, company email and phone number? These are necessities and should be easily accessible for potential clients.

They Provide Quick and Reasonable Quotes

Once you’ve requested a quote, you shouldn’t have to wait days or weeks for a reply. If a quote seems unreasonable, shop around and see what the market has to offer. You don’t have to settle for an offer; you don’t feel comfortable with.

They Have a Detailed “About” Page

Transparency is key. If a company displays photos and bios of their inspectors and owners, you’re in good company. It helps to put a friendly face to the person inspecting your home and shows the company wants you to know, trust and like them.

They Don’t Mind Answering Your Questions (Even If You Have a Lot!)

A home inspection is a big deal! An inspector should never intimidate a client by scoffing at or being annoyed with their questions. If you get the impression, you’re somehow inconveniencing them with your inquiries, best to find a better alternative.

They Have Depth and Breadth of Experience

Check how long your inspection company has been in business and the experience behind their inspectors. An experienced professional can identify potential issues and respond to your inquiries much more knowledgeable than a beginner.

We’re confident EIG hits all the markings of a great inspection company. We’d love to prove it to you with your next inspection! Schedule yours today.

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home Inspection

Is Your Garage a Fire Hazard?

garage hazard

Garage fires can happen. We’d like to give you the tools to make your garage as safe as possible from fires, as well as how to protect your home in the event of a garage fire.

Regardless of preparedness, your best bet is to hire a professional inspector to assess the safety of your garage.

We should mention this article pertains to attached garages only.

Why Are Garages Prone to Fires?

  • Garages are typically the storage centers for flammable materials such as gasoline, paint, motor oil or other flammable liquids, including paint thinner or brake oil.
  • You park your cars in the garage. Oil and gas can leak, sometimes unnoticeably from your vehicles, eventually leading to igniting a fire, if given a chance.
  • The garage is a handyman’s workspace, where accidents involving welding, cars or flammable liquids pose a fire hazard.
  • Water boilers and heaters are typically located in the garage and can cause sparks, igniting fumes or fluids.

Preventing the Spread of Garage Fires

  • Install a hatch or barrier to access to your attic, if there is an entrance leading to your garage.
  • Hire a professional inspector to assess if your walls are fire-rated. And unless you are trained, it can be difficult for the average homeowner to make this assessment alone. So, it’s better safe than sorry!
  • Keep the floors clean and devoid of clutter, including bits of paper, rags, oil-stained materials or other flammable materials. Eliminate the opportunity for fire to spread by keeping your garage floor tidy.
  • Tape down and organize cords and wires, so they are not twisted or tangled.
  • Avoid overloading electrical outlets, which can cause sparks or smoke.

Things to Consider, If You Have a Garage Door Leading into Your Home

  • Pet doors, especially those made of plastic are highly flammable and can facilitate an easy spread of fire to your home.
  • A self-closing door may sound like a pain when you’re hauling things in and out of the garage, but it’s an easily-added safety feature to protect your home.
  • Make sure your doors are properly and strongly sealed. A professional inspector can assess the safety of your door’s seal and recommend adjustments, as necessary.

Final Tips

  • Avoid using any burners or open flames in your garage. This includes propane deep fryers or grills. Thanksgiving has seen countless deep-fried turkey disasters, all due to propane accidents!
  • Clearly, label and store flammable liquids above ground. Only store liquids in small amounts and replace, as necessary.
  • Store propane tanks outdoors. They are sturdy enough to withstand the elements and pose the threat of exploding in your garage if triggered.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher handy and safely stored above ground.

Fire safety is all about prevention. Ensure you are taking the proper precautions to protect your home and garage from the threat of fire with our simple tips.

So, remember, a skilled, professional inspector is always the best way to go, to ensure the safety of your home.

Most of all, remember, we’re here for you! Schedule your inspection today, and we’ll see you in 48 hours or less!

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home Inspection

7 Misconceptions About Home Improvement

home improvement misconceptions

The verdict is in, and we’ve got the lowdown on the biggest home improvement misconceptions.

The overlying theme? Less is more and simplicity is usually the way to go. Do your homework and make responsible decisions for your home.

1. Costly Contractors Are the ONLY Way to Go

Not necessarily. Do your homework and conduct thorough research before settling on a professional contractor. Check out their site: what are customers saying?

Are there any success stories or photos available? Consult friends and family for potential recommendations. Just because the sticker price is high, doesn’t guarantee top quality or service.

2. Remodeling Always Adds Value

Think again. What is aesthetically pleasing to you, may deter future buyers. Especially if you know you have plans to sell your home down the road, stick to timeless designs and avoid an exaggerated color palette.

You can always spruce up the place with less permanent (and costly) additions, such as artwork, furniture, rugs, etc.

3. DIY Always Saves You Money

Unless you’re a skilled professional or really know what you’re doing, step away from the sledgehammer and reconsider your DIY “demo day.”

You might have a zest for home improvement, but rushing into a project, without proper preparation, planning or skill could cost you more in the long-run. In fact, it usually costs contractors more to fix a problem, than if they’d been hired in the first place.

4. Energy Efficiency Is Expensive and Complicated

Not true! You don’t need to install high-tech solar panels on your roof or start a compost pit in your backyard to be energy efficient. There are super simple solutions to everyday energy efficiency to save you massive dollars in the long run:

  • Limit your showers to 5 minutes
  • Turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use
  • Opt for LED or CFL lighting, rather than traditional incandescents
  • Utilize natural light during the daytime

5. Pools Increase Home Value

Pools are also a huge liability and require extensive upkeep. Not to mention the cost of building and installation.

For many home buyers, pools are simply “too good to be true” — the extra responsibility and maintenance is simply not worth the minor convenience on a hot summer day.

6. Replace Your HVAC Filter Monthly

In fact, the Department of Energy recommends homeowners check their filters every month with the understanding most people will replace them every 3-4 months.

You could be tossing out perfectly good filters and wasting a whole ton of money — if it looks dirty, replace it. Otherwise, every three months is a good rule of thumb.

7. Lemons Are Good for Your Garbage Disposal

The smell might seem nice, but citric acid can corrode metal blades, and tough peel can damage grinding gears and clog pipes.

Instead, opt for a tray of ice cubes, which helps clean the blades and buildup. Vinegar is an excellent, safe alternative for eliminating unpleasant odors.

Were you fooled by any of these home improvement myths? Are we missing any? Let us know!

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home Inspection

Yes — Even New Home Construction Needs An Inspection!

new construction inspection

Even brand new homes need inspections.

Homeowners often link problems down the road to faulty construction from the start. In fact, it’s not uncommon for a new home to have 10-30 issues during the final inspection walk-through.

It doesn’t mean the builder is dishonest; it is simply best to have a second set of eyes, to ensure everything is done to your standards so that you can settle into your new home with sound peace of mind.

Three reasons you should have a private inspection on new construction (in addition to the city inspector!):

    • City inspectors are only responsible for enforcing local building code with minimum safety standards. They do not inspect for the quality of construction or adherence to materials manufacturers’ installation instructions. They do not look for cosmetic flaws, including leaky faucets or scratched tiles.
    • City inspectors are highly overworked AND underpaid. A city inspector may be asked to look at upwards of 20 homes at day. At that volume, they make careless mistakes and overlook simple repairs. Elite Inspection Group never schedules more than two inspections per day, per inspector. We value quality over quantity, any day of the week!
    • New construction inspections are especially useful for out-of-state buyers. EIG will be your eyes and ears on the ground, to ensure your new home meets your desires and your will be ready for you.

If you decide to take on the final inspection yourself, here are a few words of advice.

Make a List — in Writing!

During your inspection, make a list of needed repairs or adjustments. Be sure to get it all down in writing and verify your builder receives the list, either via certified mail or in-person.

Don’t Rush

Take your time walking through your new home. You want to be thorough and detailed in your inspection, so nothing is overlooked. Don’t feel pressured by the builder to “get it over with” — this is your home, and it should be perfect.

Plan Ahead of Schedule

Arrange your final inspection about a week before your closing date, that way if the builder needs to make any repairs, they have plenty of time to get it done. Inspecting too close to your set closing date will only push your move-in date back, should there be additional repairs.

If a self-inspection seems a bit daunting, leave it to us! We break down the new construction home inspection into 3 phases:

  1. Pre-Drywall Inspection: following the installation of framing, plumbing and electrical rough-in and just before the placement of insulation and drywall.
  2. Final Inspection: immediately before your final walk-through with your builder.
  3. 11-month Warranty Inspection: one final look at your home before your warranty expires.

A new construction home inspection should be thorough and inclusive of exterior and interior elements. Here are a few examples of what we’ll look for:

Exterior

  • Foundation
  • Roofing
  • Framing
  • Lot Drainage
  • Doors & Windows
  • Porches & Decks
  • Sidewalks & Driveways
  • Sprinkler System
  • Pool/Spa
  • Built-In Outdoor Appliances

Interior

  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Basements
  • Crawl Spaces
  • Ceilings
  • Floors
  • Attics
  • Insulation
  • Fireplaces
  • Appliances

We Can Help!

Schedule your new home inspection with us today! We’re open seven days a week and are always accepting new clients.

Check out our easy scheduling tool!

Or get a quick quote.

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home Inspection

Why You Should ALWAYS Have a Professional Home Inspection!

professional home inspection

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, 88% home buyers reported increased confidence in their purchase decision after a professional home inspection.

Some buyers still fall for the temptation to opt out of a home inspection, to save cost or because they believe they simply don’t need it.

At Elite Inspection Group, we believe home buyers should ALWAYS have a professional inspection; here’s why:

  1. A home is one of the most important and expensive purchases you’ll ever make.
  2. Home inspections are an inexpensive way to avoid costly repairs and make an informed purchase.
  3. Without a licensed professional, you may overlook certain damages.
  4. A home inspection offers the opportunity to settle needed repairs before closing the deal.
  5. A professional inspector can assess the home for potential repairs needed down the road.
  6. Home inspections increase buyer confidence!

Once you’ve made the wise decision to have your home inspected before making a purchase, there are several core areas; you’ll want the inspector to focus on:

Electrical

Inspectors should check the home for age and functionality of wiring, outlets, circuit interrupters and electrical panel. An oversight in these areas could lead to electrocution, fire hazard, electrical shock or burns.

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Ask your inspector to assess the age of the home’s furnace and air conditioning, as well as the need for repairs. Your inspector should also have a look at the home’s ducting, insulation and potential signs of asbestos.

Water Heater

Ask your inspector to confirm your plumber installed your water heater properly and is functional. Next, ask your inspector to assess its age, as well as remaining lifespan.

Kitchen Appliances

Inspectors do not always include kitchen appliances in an inspection, but if they are, check for general functionality, as well as age, to determine if/when they will need to be updated.

Laundry Room

Ask the inspector to confirm the laundry room is properly ventilated, as a faulty dryer exhaust system can be a dangerous fire hazard.

Fire Safety

Test the home’s fire detectors, as well as the garage to determine if it has an appropriate fire rating.

Bathrooms

Ask your inspector to check for leaks and proper ventilation in the bathrooms, as poor air flow can lead to mold or mildew. The inspector should also confirm all toilets and faucets are properly secured.

Extra Zones

Elite Inspection Group covers all the essential inspection zones, as well as a few extras:

  • Structure and foundation
    • Electrical systems
    • Plumbing systems
  • Roofs and attics
  • Basements and crawl spaces
  • Gutters and drainage points
  • Walls, floors and ceilings
  • Porches and patio decks
  • Property and grading
    • Furnaces in heating season
    • Air conditioning in cooling season
    • Plumbing fixtures in kitchens and baths
    • Water heaters (traditional and tankless)
  • Lights and receptacles
    • Built-in appliances
  • Indoor air quality testing
  • Termite Inspections
  • Wood destroying organisms
  • Swimming pool and spa inspection

Before you make one of the most important purchase decisions of your life, get in touch with Elite Inspection Group for a professional, convenient home inspection.

Schedule your inspection today!

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
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