FAQs

A home inspection is a visual inspection of the readily accessible systems and components of a home. It is also an educational experience to learn about how the home functions and is a valuable tool for making an informed purchase decision. 

It is important to note that a home inspection is also a snapshot in time, meaning, the home is being inspected in it's current state and condition at the time of inspection.

A typical home inspection includes the evaluation of the:

• Attic

• Basement / Foundation

• Electrical system

• Exterior grounds

• Exterior walls

• Furnace

• Garage

• General interior

• Kitchen

• Plumbing system

• Roof

• Safety concerns

• Water heater

All findings are documented in a detailed report that includes photographs and recommendations when appropriate.

A home inspection is not technically exhaustive and does not include:

• Hidden or concealed defects

• Code compliance inspections

• Cosmetic issues that don't affect the home's function or safety

• Predictions about future performance or failures

• Items that are inaccessible or unsafe to inspect

As soon as possible once you are under contract. You will have a timeframe in which to have all inspections and testing completed (inspection period) per the contract. Let the inspector know what that timeframe is.

A typical home inspection will take between 2 1/2 to 3 hours to complete, depending upon the size, age, and condition of the home.

I encourage every client to attend the home inspection if possible. It is an opportunity to learn about the home, ask questions, and gain valuable information. While the report is an excellent resource, nothing can replace seeing things firsthand.

Reports are delivered electronically withing 24 hours. In most cases, unless further investigation is necessary, your report is delivered before leaving the property.

In New York State, the report is owned by the client. As such, you are welcome to share that report with whomever you like. However, we HIGHLY recommend that the only party you share your report with is your real estate agent. The inspector is not allowed to share the report or its details with any other party unless written consent is given by the client.

A home inspection is NOT a pass-or-fail test. Every home has defects and maintenance items. The purpose of the inspection is to identify significant concerns and provide you with information about the home in order to make an informed purchase decision.

The job of a home inspector is to provide you with information about the home's current condition, but ultimately, the decision to move forward with the purchase is yours. Our job is to educate you, not make the decision for you.

No inspection can identify every possible defect. A home inspection is a visual inspection of the readily accessible systems and components of a home. Hidden defects or issues concealed behind walls, flooring, and furnishings may not be discoverable.

New York State prohibits home inspectors from doing any work on a home they have inspected for a time period of one year following the inspection. This helps preserve objectivity and avoid conflicts of interest.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes through the soil. It cannot be seen or smelled and is a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Testing is the only way to determine whether elevated radon levels are present in a home. 

We use a Continuous Radon Monitor (CRM) that detects the current radon levels once an hour for 48 hours. The EPA recommended level for radon mitigation is 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). That is the equivalent of smoking 8 cigarettes per day.

If your home uses a private well, water testing is highly recommended. For some financing, such as FHA and VA, water testing may be required in order to secure the loan. 

Water testing identifies concerns related to bacteria, nitrates/nitrites, lead and copper, and other contaminants that may affect water quality.

A well flow test evaluates the water supply's ability to deliver an adequate amount of water over a period of time when served by a private well.

While some inspectors offer Septic Dye Testing, Marked Inspections does not. A dye test does not provide you critical information such as the location, material, capacity, or condition of the septic tank. A qualified septic inspector is recommended in this case.

New York State has separate licensing for mold and asbestos. Any substance that may be mold or may contain asbestos will be noted as possible mold or possible asbestos and recommended further evaluation be conducted by a licensed assessor.