Keep an open mind. Be prepared.
It is important to keep an open mind when looking at potential properties or reviewing an inspection report. Some things may be typical, for example, the older the home the more areas of needed repairs or updates may be found. Older properties often have older electrical wiring, plumbing, HVAC systems, etc, and show signs of wear and tear.
What do I do with my report findings?
The inspector will provide a detailed report of observations made based on the inspector's opinion. You the client determine what to do with that information. The inspector may recommend repairs or further evaluation by applicable tradespeople, but does not decide what items get repaired/replaced prior to purchase or sale, or in connection with the purchase or sale of a property. Of course, any items relating to occupant safety should be addressed prior to occupancy.
You may decide to repair/ replace items yourself or negotiate them or even purchase/sell the property "As is".
A non-invasive, visual examination of accessible areas, systems, and components of a property based on observed conditions at the time of the inspection. Per Illinois state law, the scope of the inspection, describing limitations & exclusions, shall be in a written agreement between the inspector & client, signed prior to inspection. Iowa does not currently have license requirements for inspectors.
A standard residential home inspection should take approximately 2 1/2 hours or more depending on age and size, but no less than 2 hours for a thorough inspection. The exception to this would be condominium/ Townhome inspections.
Remember, You get to choose the inspector you want; Tell your agent you want The British Inspector, or schedule the inspection yourself using our easy online scheduler. We take care of the rest.
(If you cant find an available date and time, property is out of our normal coverage area,or need a commercial/multi unit inspection. Send us a note using form below and we will get back to you asap)
Are you waiving your Home Inspection?
Ask most experts, and they'll tell you it's not a good idea to waive a home inspection. You are about to spend a large amount of money. You should find out as much as you can about the property/home you are about to buy.
Consider a Walk-Through Consultation.
Buying a commercial or multi-unit property (more than four units) Walk through the interior and exterior of the property you are thinking of buying with The British Inspector, sharing observations, and concerns. Ask about our competitive fees for walk-through consultations.
Pre Listing Inspections.
Ready to sell your home. Consider a Pre-listing inspection. Consider the benefits. With a pre-listing inspection.
1. Understand the condition of your home.
2. Ability to do repairs in advance.
3. Gain credibility and trust.
4. Increased competitiveness. Stand out from other listings.
A home/property Inspection is worth the cost when you're making one of the biggest purchases of your life. A professional Home/property Inspection will help you make a better-informed decision.
Keep in mind. A home inspector's only obligation is to you, the client. We have no other vested interest in the property being inspected. We work for you!!
We offer mold and air quality tests at discounted rates, with a standard home inspection.
We also offer stand-alone water and air quality testing.
According to the EPA, "Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. Radon is inert, colorless and odorless. Radon gas becomes trapped indoors after it enters buildings through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer in the United States."
The only safe level of radon gas is NO radon gas. The US EPA has set an action level of 4.0pCi/L. At or above this level the EPA recommends you take corrective measures to reduce your exposure. This does not imply that a level below 4.0pCi/L is considered safe or acceptable. While short-term testing for real estate transactions is approved, it only provides a snapshot of radon levels at that time. long-term tests are recommended and provide a better picture of radon levels in the home.
Link to EPA site regarding radon: https://www.epa.gov/radon
Water quality testing is a simple test that checks a homes water supply for contaminants and pollutants. Some mortgage lenders require water quality testing with private wells, usually testing for e.coli and coliform. Some tests may take longer due to specific contaminant being tested.
Water testing will require access to water source prior to filtration or cleaning systems. EPA link to water information: https://www.epa.gov/water
Mold is everywhere, indoors & out. Molds will grow in places with a lot of moisture such as around leaks in roofs, windows or pipes, leaky basements, etc. Molds can enter your home through doorways, windows, vents and heating & air conditioning systems. it can also attach itself to clothing, shoes & pets. Exposure to damp and moldy environments may cause a variety of health effects or none at all. Some people are sensitive to mold, causing symptoms like stuffy nose, wheezing, and red itchy eyes. People with asthma or immune-related conditions may have more intense reactions. If problem levels of mold are found in an air quality test, always check with your Doctor if you have health concerns.
Tips to prevent mold growth: