Home Inspection Assoc., Inc.
Home Inspection Assoc., Inc.
105 Haverhill Street
Methuen, MA 01844
ph: (800) 892-0500
What To Expect During Your Home Inspection
Our report documents are clear, concise and combine an assessment and narrative on the conditions and deficiences we reveal during our site inspection. We encourage our clients to join us during the inspection, ask questions, share future plans for renovations and additions and take notes and photographs. Our inspection report is copyright protected and developed exclusively for our company and is not available anywhere else. Here is just a glimpse of what we cover.
General Inspection Information
Home Inspection Assoc., Inc. provides a residential home inspection for any size property. We also inspect commercial and industrial real estate. Upon request, we provide consulting services on projects, assess physical damage, review expansions/renovations and oversee new construction. Contact us today for pricing information or to schedule an appointment
Included with each report is a copy of the Code of Massachusetts Standards for Home Inspectors 266 CMR for you to review.
We provide a written contract at the commencement of our inspection identifing exactly what we are committed to do and reminding the client to obtain certain information from the seller or seller-broker pertaining to the sale of the home per 266 CMR.
You should have all the facts concerning your home at the end of our site inspections.
We provide a complete report either by e-mail, Fax or USPS approximately 2 - 3 days after the inspection.
Lot and Landscaping
The inspector will determine the general grade of the lot, the maintenance level of the landscaping and any potential problems that may arise from the existing condition. He will assess the general condition of the walks, driveway and steps of the structure.Foundation
The inspector will check the foundation and look for evidence of settlement and/or seepage in the basement areas. The inspector will look for recent uneven settlement, foundation movement,and cracks where exposed. He look at drainage, sump pump locations and the presence of dehumidification and ventilation. In addition, he will examine any crawl spaces for structural integrity, type of supports, joists and girders, and proper ventilation.Plumbing
The inspector will determine the type of system in the property, assess its current condition, and will explain how it operates and how to maintain the system. He will show you how to shut off the water to the entire building or individually shut down varies sections, fixtures, and outside hose connections. If the home is on a well, he will inspect the condition of the well equipment in the basement and make recommendations. The inspector will operator all of the plumbing fixtures and faucets for function.Hot Water Supply
The inspector will look at the type of hot water system present in the property, access its current condition and detail system operation and maintenance. He will inspect for proper pressure valve temperature as well examine exposed flue pipes and look for indications of potential problems.Heating
The inspector will determine the type of system in the property, assess its current condition, and will explain how it operates and how to maintain the system. He will look for heat output in the living space. He will determine the number of heating zones present in the property. The inspector will examine the distribution system, flue pipes, fuel source, insulation type and any exposed tanks.Air Conditioning
The inspector will determine the type of system present (if any) and the number of zones for the property, and he will determine if the systems is functional (weather permitting). He will also examine the distribution system for any potential problems.Chimney and Fireplace
The inspector will inspect the firebox, hearth, damper and exterior chimney. He will determine if the expose masonry is in need of repair and assess the function of the damper. He will look at wood or pellet stove installations and make recommendations. He will operate gas fired fireplaces if operable.Electrical
The inspector will review the type of system in the property, assess its current condition and will explain how it operates and how to maintain the system. We will open panels, where accessible and look for potential problems. The inspector will identify the amperage, number of circuits, visiable loading issues, proper grounding and bonding. He will test a sampling of outlets for function and note if they have been wired properly. The inspector will test all undedicated GFI and AFI outlets in the home.Termite Infestation and Wood Damage
The inspector cannot provide any certification regarding pests, for this you will need a licensed exterminator. The inspector will however look for insect damage and determine if there is any structural damage due to the presence of termites or other insects. We recommend that you schedule the termite inspection just prior to the home inspection.Structure
The inspector will look for evidence of settlement and/or water seepage in the structure. He will assess the general structural support of the house, joits, girders, flooring, sub-flooring and interior walls. He will note any deficiencies and needed repair in the house, such as evidence of water leaks or cracks. He will check a subset of the windows and doors of the property, noting their type, function and condition. The inspector will determine if all hand rails, landings and stairs are in a safe and secure condition. We will check all egresses to determine condition and use. If the property is within a mulit-unit building, he will also inspect the common areas where applicable for any deficiencies or needed repairs.Attic
The inspector will go into the attic, if possible, and determine the presence of, type and amount of the insulation and ventilation in the property. He will perform a general structural assessment of the attic, framing and collar ties as well and look for leaks or conditions that require repair. The inspector will assess potential problems associated with ice dams, flashings or roof penetrations. We access all crawlspaces and determine structural integity, ventilation and general condition.Exterior
The inspector will look at the exterior walls, noting their type and condition. From ground level, he will examine all soffit, trim and facia boards for deterioration. All decks, porches, balconies, stairs and hand rails will be checked to see if they are secure and safe. We will look for signs of concealed damage and moiture entrapment. He will also determine the general condition of all exterior building features and make recommendations regarding their care.Roof
The inspector will determine the type of roof covering, its condition and any general problems or maintenance issues. Different roof types have specific maintenance issues associated with them. In addition, the inspector will assess the gutters for type, condition and function, and he will look at flashings and skylights as welll as any other roof penetrations or features. He will visual inspect all other roof features, such as dormers, firewalls, penthouses and roof decks (and handrails).Garage
The inspector will examine the garage for internal and external structural integrity, as he would the house. He will check the roof, exterior and interior walls, flooring, windows, etc. He will determine the presence and function of electric door openers. He will trigger the general safety features of the automatic garage door if safe to do so.
A Typical Home Inspection Includes:
- Lot and Landscape
- Grading and drainage
- Basement, foundation, and crawlspaces
- Water penetration and seepage
- Foundation movement
- Drainage and sump pumps, where accessible
- Main water shut off valves
- Interior plumbing, fixtures and faucets
- Heating systems, fuel source, distribution systems, radiators, vents and duct work.
- Cooling systems, duct work, line insulation and filters
- Electrical service, panels, breakers and fuses
- Main electrical disconnect and amperage
- Grounding and bonding
- GFI and AFI testing (non-dedicated)
- Building structure, joist, girders, beams and supports
- Interior surface conditions of walls, ceilings and floors
- Interior water penetration and leaks
- Attic and crawl space inspection
- Insulation and ventilation
- Fireplace damper doors, firebox, hearth and exposed masonry
- Garages
- Garage doors, safety sensors and openers
- Roof material, condition vents, flashing and trim
- Exterior siding
- Gutters and downspouts
- Skylights, chimney and other roof penetrations.
- Decks, steps, porches, walkways and railings.
- Common areas
- Radon and water test kits available at an additional fee.
And many more areas....
Copyright 2009 Home Inspection Assoc., Inc.. All rights reserved.
Home Inspection Assoc., Inc.
105 Haverhill Street
Methuen, MA 01844
ph: (800) 892-0500
