Home Inspections FAQs

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR?

Generally speaking, I look for anything that does not appear to be as it should. For any given situation, I ask myself if it would be acceptable in my own home.

I was trained at Midwest Inspector's Institute in Leavenworth, Kansas, one of the leading facilities in the country for training and certifying home inspectors. I am certified by MII to perform home inspections. In addition, I regularly attend seminars and take continuing education classes devoted to the inspection process.

In addition, I have been tested by the American Society of Home Inspectors, and am a candidate member of ASHI (#244630). I fully adhere to and follow the ASHI Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. A link to ASHI can be found on my .CONNECTIONS. page. I am also a member of the Great Planes Chapter of ASHI.

These affiliations and this training have taught me what to look for, how to explain it to my client, and how to report it.

WHAT EXACTLY DO YOU DO DURING AN INSPECTION?

A home inspection is a general yet in-depth examination and testing of a house and its various systems. I test, I explain, I examine, and I try to answer questions. I look for leaky pipes, evidence of deterioration, faulty wiring, safety concerns, roofs, driveways, stairs, and so forth.

DO I NEED TO BE THERE?

If possible, the client, at the least, should be present. My client is the person who contracts for, and pays for, my services. This can be a realtor, a homeowner/seller, or a potential buyer.

DO YOU DO ANY OTHER INSPECTIONS?

No. However, if I suspect the presence of mold, say, or insect infestation, for instance, I will indicate this to my client, along with the reasons for my concern, and recommend further examination by a professional qualified in that specific area.

DO YOU DO ANY REPAIRS YOURSELF?

To assure impartiality and professionalism, I do not perform repairs or remodeling, nor am I affiliated with any companies of organizations which perform such services. My only business is performing inspections. I do not endorse or recommend specific businesses or contractors.

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR AREAS OF CONCERN FOR A HOMEOWNER?

Water is over time the greatest enemy of any house. Water can cause foundations to crack and even fail. Water can penetrate deteriorating roof systems and damage framing, ceilings, and walls. Excessive humidity in a basement, for instance, can lead to mold, which is a significant environmental concern. Leaky pipes can cause floors and sub-flooring to grow mold and deteriorate as well. How well the house deflects rain and the evidence of plumbing leaks, past and present, are major areas of interest for the inspector.

Safety issues are of course a major concern, as well. These include, for instance, faulty wiring, loose stair rails, improperly secured decks, And many other issues.