Frequently asked questions
This page contains answers to common questions handled by our support staff, along with some tips and tricks that we have found useful and presented here as questions.
What does an Inspection include?
Our inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition, at the time of the inspection, of the home's heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structures.
Do I need to be there during the Inspection?
No, you aren't required to be there for the inspection. However, we highly recommend that you be present during the inspection so that we may go over our findings with you. It's a valuable learning experience and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. Also you can ask your home inspector any questions you might have.
How long will the Inspection take?
The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. For most homes, 2-3 hours is average. But for larger and/or older homes, it may take longer.
Do you offer a warranty or guarantee?
Yes we offer a 90 day limited warranty, however a home inspection is limited to what is visibly accessible at the time of the inspection. Rugs, pictures, furnishings, wall coverings, and vegetation can hide, block, or prevent access to parts of the home. An inspection is a written professional opinion of the condition of the home at the time of the inspection. We cannot predict or forecast the life expectancy of a working system. We also offer you our satisfaction guarantee, if you are not completely satisfited with our service we will issue you with a refund.
What if the Inspection uncovers issues?
Our report will tell you the condition of the property at the time of the inspection, including any needed repairs. No property will be perfect. It is up to you to decide whether any issue the inspection uncovers might affect your decision to purchase. If major issues are discovered, we highly recommend that further evaluations be made by a licensed contractor for the area of concern PRIOR TO CLOSING!
You may also try negotiating with the seller to have these areas repaired before closing the deal. Or perhaps the seller will lower the price, or offer more favorable contract terms. Part of your Realtor's job is to help you decide the best course of action for your transaction. In the end, the decision is yours, but knowing about potential issues, before you buy, gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.
Will you fix the issues you find during the Inspection?
Denver home inspection services code of ethics, as well as the ASHI & FABI and Internachi Code of Ethics, prohibits a home inspector from doing any repair work on properties he or she inspects. This assures that there will never be a conflict of interest by the inspector. Our purpose is to provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home at the time of the inspection.
What is a Windstorm Mitigation Insurance Report?
A Windstorm mitigation inspection is a roof and shutter inspection. Florida law requires insurance companies to offer Florida homeowners “discounts, credits or other rate adjustments” for construction techniques that reduce damage and loss in windstorms. Call now…savings on your Insurance premium could be 20 to 45% less than you are paying now!
What is the 4-Point Inspection?
Following Hurricane Andrew in 1992, insurance companies in Florida and other states began encouraging home owners to make their homes safer and reduce insurance claims. Many of the insurance companies and the JUA (Joint Underwriting Association) now request a 4-Point Inspection, which includes the following: Roof Inspection Electrical Inspection HVAC (Heat & Air Conditioning) Inspection Plumbing Inspection What are they looking for in these 4-Point Inspection reports? Insurance companies are generally looking for these systems to have been updated to current standards and to be functioning in good condition. The 4-Point Inspection is a tool for them to evaluate the condition of your home on these four major concerns.
Will I get an inspection report on site?
The scheduled inspection time is spent evaluating the property. It usually requires an additional 1 to 3 hours to compile our findings and write your comprehensive, detailed report. Your report will usually be available for viewing and emailed to you within 24 hours. Additional time may be required for results of certain environmental tests, such as mold, lead, and commercial radon.
What type of report do I receive?
Our reports are in a narrative style which is both comprehensive and detailed. Photos can also be included as required. Our reports are easy to understand because we do not use vague or broad terms which could make the results confusing. Hand written or checklist forms, used by other companies, are incapable of giving you the level of detail and confidence you may need to make an informative decision about your new home investment.
Are Septic Tanks included in a Standard Home Inspection?
In order to inspect and evaluate a septic system with any degree of adequacy and reliability it is necessary to excavate the access cover on the tank and extract the sewage contained therein. This requires the use of a septic disposal truck and pump equipment. The tank is pumped out, flushed and then inspected. For a truly reliable evaluation of your septic system, a qualified, licensed septic contractor needs to be called in. This type of thorough inspection typically costs $ 300 to $ 500.
Can I contact you with questions after the inspection?
Yes, Denver Home Inspections will be happy to return your call and answer any questions regarding the home or inspection report.
What is the fee for an inspection?
Our fees are based on a number of items. The square footage of the home or condo. How old the home is. Is there an attic? Crawlspace? Pool or Spa? You may also want to schedule testing for Termites, Mold, Lead, Radon and other types of inspections, all at the same time. Please call for pricing and we can answer all of your questions and schedule your inspection.
How much should it cost?
All inspection firms have different fees. Some will charge based on square footage, some by the selling price of the house or condo, and some may quote a flat rate. The general rule is that you get what you pay for! The two biggest factors to look for when hiring an inspector are how long will the inspector actually spend doing the inspection and how detailed is the written report. Years of experience in the industry and current credentials from the State and other certifying agencies should also be deciding factors.Other variables include: Is the inspector or company licensed? Does the inspector have certified credentials? Is the inspector or company insured for liability and workman's comp?
