Even in beautiful Polk City, FL Home Inspections can be stressful.
To help make this process easier for you and your valued family, we have answered many of your questions here below.
Q. My house is a total mess, I am so sorry!
A. (Usually the folks who say this have an immaculately clean home) It’s perfectly fine, mines a mess too. I wont judge you. I have several kids and pets, so I know the feeling.
Q. What DO you inspect and what do you NOT inspect.
A. Everything from the roof to the foundation and everything in between. That being said, I am performing a “limited visual inspection” of your home. I cannot see through walls and foundations. In addition, I cannot predict how much longer a component of your home will function without issue. I cannot and will not take apart appliances, HVAC systems, and the sort. For example, I will inspect your air conditioner, operate it, and determine its age. However, I will not take off the cover and test every relay and capacitor. The only cover I will remove is the cover for the home’s electrical panel, assuming I can access it, and it is safe to do so. I do inspect the visible areas of the foundation, drainage, roof, interior & exterior surfaces, ceilings & floors, interior & exterior doors, windows, fireplaces & chimneys, appliances, HVAC equipment, electrical system, attic, and plumbing. I do not inspect irrigation systems, pools, spas, detached buildings, septic tanks, underground pipes, air/water purification systems, anything that is unsafe/unsanitary, and security equipment.
Q. Do you have experience with VA inspections?
A. Being a veteran, I am always honored to perform an inspection for a fellow veteran. Yes, I have done inspections for veterans using a VA home loan. I understand that there are certain aspects that play a role in a VA loan, and I specifically check for those. However, I do not perform VA appraisals.
Q. Do you perform new construction inspections?
A. Absolutely! These can be performed in-progress (before drywall), and after final completion.
Q. Do you offer any discounts?
A. I certainly do! Discounts are available for teachers, first responders, healthcare workers, and veterans.
Q. How much does a home inspection cost?
A. This will depend on the size of your home and what services you will be needing. You are more than welcome to call for a fast and free quote.
Q. Am I able to ask questions during the inspection?
A. Yes! I have grown very fond of providing homeowners with information about the different components of their home, any defects it may have, or any questions they may have about them. My theory is, if you are going to spend a lot of money purchasing this home, you should be asking A LOT of questions. Never purchase anything of a sizable amount until you feel confidant that you have a substantial working knowledge about the product.
Q. Do you accept credit cards?
A. Payment may be made with a debit or credit card on our homepage by clicking the "Submit Payment" button. Cash, check, PayPal, and CashApp are always welcomed.
Q. How soon can you get our inspection done?
A. Every effort will be made to accommodate your needs. I will call/ text back within 12 hours, guaranteed. The earliest available time will always be offered first. I currently work as a K-9 Handler, and own/operate this business in my off time.
Q. How long will it take after the inspection for me to get the report?
A. No longer than 48 hours after completion of the inspection. However, many reports are usually sent within a few hours after completion.
Q. Do your reports contain images?
A. Absolutely. I am a “visual guy” myself. That being said, I understand things better when they are shown to me. I strive to show and explain everything that is discussed in the report. Within reason, of course. It’s very difficult to explain with a photograph that an exhaust fan is making a squealing noise.
Q. Are you licensed and insured?
A. Yes and yes. I can always provide written proof if requested.
Q. Where does most of your business come from?
A. Word of mouth. An overwhelming majority of my clients either are, or have been referred by, friends, co-workers, or family.
Q. What tools/equipment do you use for inspections?
A. Most of the inspection is visual, so I mostly use my cellphone with an ultra-high-definition camera. I also commonly use an infrared temperature gun, screwdriver, gas detector, moisture meter, outlet tester, voltage detector, tape measurer, electric multimeter, ladder, and flashlight. However, my favorite tool is my drone! The drone provides a clear arial picture of the roof of your home. I even named my drone “Hedwig”! (Did you catch the Harry Potter reference?)
Q. How long will the inspection take?
A. This will depend on the type of inspection that is being performed. It will take approximately one hour for a 4 Point and Wind Mitigation Inspection. It usually takes between 2-3 hours for a Buyer’s Inspection or maintenance check-up.
Q. Are you ok with me being present during the inspection?
A. Whatever is most comfortable and convenient for you. You are more than welcome to accompany me while I perform your inspection, I can perform the inspection while you are away, or you can be in the comfort of your living room while I do what I do best. I kindly ask that your four-legged family members be secured while I am in your home or yard to prevent them from mistaking me for the mailman.
Q. Do you email the report?
A. Yes. It will be in an attachment.
Q. Do you work on weekends?
A. Yes, if that is what works best for your needs.
Q. Is there anything I should do on my end prior to the inspection taking place to ensure it can be completed properly?
A. Yes. Please make sure your four-legged family members are secure. Regardless of what type of inspection you will need I will need access to your roof, all sides of your home’s exterior walls, attic, electric panel, A/C equipment, water heater, washing machine, under all sinks, toilets, and shower/tub faucets.
