It is preferable, though not necessary, for the client to attend. However, we encourage our clients to arrive towards the end of the inspector’s evaluation. It might be helpful to think of “The Inspection” as two separate halves. The first half being the inspector’s assessment and the second being the inspector’s walk-through with clients. Part 1: “Inspector’s assessment” It is critically important for the inspector to have a safe and unobstructed opportunity to assess the overall and individual components of the property. The inspector, like any other professional, has a specific routine that he follows to perform his best on the clients behalf. It should also be noted that inspecting homes is a potentially dangerous endeavor. Inspectors typically remove covers at live electrical panels, climb tall ladders, walk on roofs, and crawl through cramped under-floor areas. For these reasons we do not recommend the client, or any other persons, participate in this part of the process. At this time the inspector takes detailed notes and digital photographs while conducting his assessment of the property. Simply stated, the more people present at the site means additional variables and an increased likelihood of an unsafe event or an oversight. Part 2: “Inspector’s walk-through with clients” Upon completing his assessment, the inspector will share his main findings with the client. At this point, the inspector will spend as much time as necessary to answer all of the questions the buyer’s may have. Conducting the inspection in this manner saves time for all of the parties involved and reduces the number of on-site variables. By doing so, the highest quality and most efficient inspection can be provided.
A typical single family home inspection takes about 3 hours on site. There is additional off-site work generating our comprehensive report. Large homes, custom built homes, and Older homes may take considerably longer. Condo’s may take less time as there are less exterior items. Note: We can provide you with a time estimate during the scheduling process. These time estimates vary and do not include time spent generating the report (completed off-site).
Most inspection reports will be delivered via e-mail (pdf format) within 24 hours. The report outlines all major areas of the home including heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, roofing, foundation, siding and more. A sample inspection report exists on this site for your review. Inspection reports on large Commercial buildings and Multi family residence may take longer.
If you’re a buyer, you should schedule an inspection as soon as you have a signed contract in place. The standard contract agreement typically only allows 17 days for buyer’s to perform investigations and removal of contingencies. Most REO and bank foreclosure sales insist on even shorter contingency periods. If you are selling a property, consider a pre-listing inspection before putting the home on the market. This will give you time to consider making any necessary repairs to boost buyer confidence and help your home rise above the nearby competition.
Property inspection fees depend on a variety of factors, including: square footage, age of the home, number of heating and air conditioning units, and location. A ballpark figure on an “average” property would be $275.00 (condo), and $385.00 (single family). Contact us for an accurate quote. (503) 501-1908.
A home inspection is limited to a visual inspection of the home’s components and systems. Inspectors do not do damage to walls or ceilings, use invasive tools or disturb personal property. Problems that cannot be seen during the extensive walk-through of the property are not within the scope of a standard home inspection.
Depending on what is found during the inspection, we may recommend that you have specific home components evaluated by a specialist, such as a plumber or electrician, for possible updates or repairs. We never solicit bids on repairs or promote a single contractor. We suggest soliciting referrals from friends or family in the area and obtaining at least three estimates for any repair or update.
Payment is due at time of inspection. If you are unable to attend we can make other arrangements. We prefer cash or personal check. We typically do not process payments made through escrow unless there is a special circumstance.
It is always recommended to hire licensed professionals. Our license number is located at the top of our website. Hiring licensed professionals for your home inspection and repairs is extremely important. You can obtain and view all contractors license history at the State of Oregon Construction Contractors Board.
We do offer a military discount at $25.00 off any inspection.
(503) 501-1908