A home cannot fail an inspection. A professional home inspection gives you an independent, unbiased view of any problems and their solutions, so that you will have all the facts you need to make a sound, informed decision.

Depending on the size and condition of the home, a thorough home inspection will take no more than four hours for a large home. Ideally, you will accompany your inspector during the consultation, so that you will have visual reinforcement of your written report.

We take our inspection reports seriously. Every inspection is a complete and thorough analysis of all the major systems and components in the home. The report includes a clear description of what we've found with any problem areas noted, and a photograph of the callouts so you can easily identify them. Our inspectors also provide a free telephone consultation after your inspection.

A thorough home inspection will include the following:

BUILDING EXTERIOR - Surfaces, Doors and Windows, Safety Glazing*, Decks and Patios, Stairs and Walkways, Railings*, Surface Drainage.

ROOF - Roofing materials, Flashing, Vents and Chimneys, Drainage of Roofing Surface, Gutters and Downspouts, Skylights.

ATTIC AND ROOF FRAMING - Access, Insulation, Ventilation.

FOUNDATION, CRAWLSPACE, AND BASEMENT - Access opening, Clearance from soil, Foundation Walls and other Support Elements, Substructure Framing, Anchoring and Bracing*.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS - Panels, Main Disconnect*, Visible Wiring, Service Drop, Breakers and fuses*, G.F.C.I. test*, Switches, outlets and fixtures.

PLUMBING - Supply, Waste and Vent Piping (type of Material used and installation of accessible piping), Main Supply Shutoff*, House Water Flow and Water Pressure, Fixtures and Local Shutoff Valves*.

CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS - Plumbing, Gas, and Electrical Connections, Ducting, Shutoff Valves, Vents, and Combustion Air.

WATER HEATERS - Capacity, T.P.R. Valve and Discharge Piping*, Seismic Restraints if required*, Water, Gas, and Electrical Connections.

CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONERS - Condensers, Electrical Disconnect, Refrigerant lines, Condensate drain line.

FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEYS - Evidence of Smoking, Damper, and Flues.

INTERIORS - Stairs, Countertops, Windows and Doors, Safety Glazing*, ventilation.

* indicates safety or earthquake safety items.