A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

The standard home inspector's report will review the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure.

We would argue everyone does. The purchase of a home can be one of the costliest investments of a person’s life. However, it takes an average of 15 minutes for a person to look at a house and decide they want to buy it. I take an impartial look at the house and am often able to see things you might overlook. Also, it is a good idea for sellers to have an inspection done before putting their house on the market, to avoid any unsuspected surprises when the buyer has an inspection done.

Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail.

Most importantly of all however, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

While it is not required to be present, we highly recommend you or an agent of yours attend the inspection so you can get the most value from your inspection. Being present allows you to see things first hand, and ask any questions that you have. Many home buyers find that talking with their inspector gives them a better understanding the condition of the home and how to maintain it.

On average, a single-family home inspection usually takes 2-4 hours to complete, though this is heavily dependent on the of the size and condition of the home. After the inspection process, the inspector will send you an inspection report (often within 24-48 hours) that covers their findings, complete with pictures, analysis and recommendations.

A professional home inspection is an examination and objective assessment of the current condition of a house. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement. A home inspection is not an appraisal and will not determine the home's market value. It is also not a municipal inspection and does not verify local code compliance.

It is important to note that no house is perfect. Every home inspection will identify issues with the property and the inspector will communicate the severity of the issues found. The home inspector's goal is to leave their clients with a deeper understanding of their prospective home, so the client can make a sound decision as they continue their home buying process. The client should be fully aware of any issues, risks, or health concerns that may impact the client's decision. The inspector's role is not to tell the clients if they should buy the house or not, but to help the clients understand the full cost of ownership. If major problems are found, home buyers may wish to negotiate with the seller to make repairs or cover their costs.

We never recommend going with an inspector just because they are the cheapest. What you are paying for is the inspector’s experience and background for example.

Just because a home is newly built, does not mean it won't have problems. We uncover mistakes on new homes all the time.

Currently serving Northwest Oregon, including: Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Sherwood, Clackamas, Salem, McMinnville, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Gresham, Wilsonville, Woodburn, St. Helens, and many others.

Home inspections typically happen after an offer has been made but before the closing date. That way an inspector can rule out any major defects that could be hazardous or costly to fix.