So, you scheduled your home inspection, and now it’s time to prepare your home! Deciding where to start can be overwhelming – we are here to help!
Starting with a pre-inspection can provide you with pertinent information upfront and have any concerns brought to your attention before any buyers walk through your home. Whether or not you decide to make any repairs, having the information can help you with other areas, such as no surprises coming your way and listing price.
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The first step in getting your home ready for inspection is accessibility. Ensuring the inspector will have easy access to your property is crucial. Be sure to remove anything blocking water heaters, furnaces, and other important utilities. And don’t forget the exterior—clearing windows, doors, paths of any overgrowth, and putting away trash cans and other loose items.
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Working your way to the inside, a deep clean and decluttering is highly recommended. Some inspection access points include the furnace filter, stove/oven, and clearing entryways to the attic and any crawl spaces, which is extremely helpful. Be sure to snake any clogged drains, clear the dryer vent, and fix that running toilet!
Don’t forget to test what you can. This can include opening and closing windows, testing locks and light switches, flushing toilets, running faucets, etc.
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Safety is very important to potential buyers. Replacing batteries, testing all detectors, repairing any water damage, and replacing light bulbs are just a few of the many ways to update safety precautions in your home.
So, your inspector is on their way? Ensure all utilities are on, clear out the washer, dryer, sink, and dishwasher, and have any paperwork needed (maintenance, insurance, repairs, etc) handy.
Once the home inspector arrives, they will review structural areas, the roof, any water damage or plumbing problems, appliances, electrical concerns, HVAC, termite damage, and any other area of the home for any potential concerns.
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Preparing for a home inspection in Philadelphia requires attention to detail and proactive measures. Communicating openly with your inspector and seeking clarification on any concerns that may arise during the inspection process can help ensure a smoother and more comprehensive experience. This will give you a clearer understanding of your property’s condition and potential areas for improvement.
Now that you have what you need to prepare for a home inspection, schedule with us today!
When getting a home inspection, it is important to prepare yourself for potential concerns that you can find. This blog post will cover some common issues that may arise during an inspection. Inspecting these areas ensures that your home is safe and sound for you and your family.
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One of the first areas that may have some concerns is the roof, especially since a faulty roof can lead to numerous other home issues. The inspector checks for leaks, venting and insulation, compromised vents and gutters, the roofing material and installation condition, water damage, and other areas. Roofing repairs can be costly, so it’s important this area is thoroughly reviewed, whether you are buying or selling the home.
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Another area that can cause concern is electrical wiring. Many fires are started each year in the home due to improper wiring. Some frequent areas that can cause red flags include frayed insulation, wiring not installed by a professional, exposed or damaged wiring, over-fusing, and more. The home inspector will review the GFCIs throughout the house, test all outlets, and evaluate the electrical panels. Getting these areas checked is essential for safety purposes and to prevent fire hazards.
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Another important area of concern is plumbing. It’s crucial to have an inspection done on your plumbing system to avoid any unexpected and costly repairs down the line. Your inspector will thoroughly examine faucets, showers, drains, water pressure, visible pipes, and the water shut-off valve to ensure everything is in good working order.
The inspector may find plumbing issues such as leaks, drainage issues, outdated materials, etc.
Hidden leaks can lead to moisture, which can lead to mold and rot. Keep an eye out for things like a spike in your water bill, low water pressure, leaks, and water stains.
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Another area to ensure is properly evaluated is mold. It’s crucial to thoroughly assess the presence of mold, as it poses a significant health risk. If any mold is detected, it should be dealt with promptly. Mold can be hard to see as it can be hidden in numerous spaces, especially around water-soaked areas. Our home inspectors will look for mold-like substances but do not automatically test for them. Upon request, we offer surface mold tests if you suspect mold in the home.
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One of the last (but certainly not least) areas we will cover is the foundation, another costly area to repair. During the foundation inspection, we will be assessing various areas, including but not limited to cracks, leaks, bowing, water-wicking, and uneven floors. Cracking in the foundation is a major concern, as it can lead to various other issues. You should be aware that there are many reasons why a foundation can crack, such as tree roots, inadequate reinforcement, and natural causes, among others.
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The inspection doesn’t stop here. Many more areas need to be evaluated thoroughly, such as the exterior, HVAC, water heater, wood rot, drainage, termite damage, asbestos, and overall structure. Gathering this information, whether buying or selling a home, is crucial to ensure safety and assess costs. Skipping this critical step could lead to costly mistakes down the line.
Eagle Inspections are home inspectors in Philadelphia trained to examine various aspects of a home thoroughly. Remember, a home inspection is an investment in your future, so it is essential to take it seriously and be prepared for any concerns that may arise.
Have you ever wondered what key qualities, skills, and certifications you should be vetting when selecting a home inspector? Here are some tips and information on differentiating red and green flags. Is the inspector currently and properly certified? Ask for proof of certification. Ask questions such as if they have completed any recent continuing education.
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Asking questions is always a plus when getting into business with someone new! How long have they been a home inspector? What amount of relevant experience do they have? What types of inspections do they perform? Do they have skills in other relevant trades? Any advanced technology they use during the inspection? Gauging their responsiveness is also a great way to know if you’re making the right decision. It never hurts to ask; the more information you have, the better!
Another area to focus on is the home inspection process and report. How long does the inspection take, and can I be present? How long does the turnaround on your inspection report typically take, and do you have a sample report I can review? Don’t forget to ask about the home inspection cost! Total cost and any specialized inspections for radon, termite, mold, or sewer scope inspections are an additional fee. You should know what you’re getting up front!
There are business qualities you can look out for right away – before even initiating contact. Does the company have positive reviews? Do they have a legitimate website with up-to-date information, sample reports, and other vital facts about the company? How relevant are their social media and search engine results? Little to no web presence can be a significant red flag.
Some other ways of finding information besides internet searches and social media are methods like word of mouth (first-hand recommendations go a long way!), asking real estate agents for referrals, as well as investors.
It’s pertinent to take the appropriate steps when selecting a home inspector. Research is key, and the options for finding out information are endless!
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When choosing a home inspector, it’s essential to consider their qualifications, experience, reputation, and the scope of their inspections. Look for licensed, certified inspectors with a strong track record of thorough and unbiased assessments. Eagle Inspections is a reputable choice due to its experienced team of inspectors in Philadelphia who adhere to rigorous industry standards and provide comprehensive evaluations, helping homebuyers confidently make informed decisions.
Have you ever wondered what happens after a home inspection? The inspector will provide the homeowner with a detailed inspection report covering everything the home inspector reviewed and found. In this article, we will delve into what happens after a home inspection in Philadelphia and the surrounding area, focusing on the components of a home inspection report and the subsequent actions that buyers might take based on its findings.
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After the home inspection is conducted, the home inspector in Philadelphia will compile a detailed report outlining their findings.
When you receive the report, you must take the time to read through the information. It’s essential to review any safety or significant issues. This report typically includes information about the condition of the home’s various components, including but not limited to the foundation, roof, electrical systems, HVAC, plumbing, and more. The report will highlight any issues or areas of concern that were identified during the inspection. Homebuyers can then review this report and decide how to proceed.
If you have questions or need further information, contact your inspector, and ask! It’s pertinent you understand the information before moving forward with any repairs or moving forward with the home in general.
If you do see areas of concern, don’t fret. Issues can vary from minor to major, and prioritization is critical. Ask a professional and get more information. Real estate agents, contractors, plumbers, electricians, and other trained individuals can help guide you through the appropriate steps. Once you have all the necessary facts, prioritize and negotiate!
After reviewing everything and speaking to the appropriate professionals, suppose you don’t feel completely satisfied with the price, repair amount, or other areas. In that case, there is nothing wrong with walking away. Remember to think long-term about your happiness, financial situation, and what you really want!
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A home inspection report is essential for making educational decisions, asking appropriate questions, making confident negotiations, and much more. When investing in a property, you want to be fully prepared, and a home inspection will allow you to be! Just remember to consider the inspection cost as a valuable investment in ensuring the integrity of the property you’re considering purchasing. The home inspection cost in Philadelphia can vary depending on factors such as the home’s size and the inspection’s extent.
If you are buying a home in Philadelphia or the surrounding area, there are many areas of a home inspection that are pertinent in ensuring you have the information to make proper decisions.
We’ll explore some of the common items checked by a home inspector, shedding light on the vital components that can significantly impact the value and safety of a home.
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One area is plumbing. Some areas the home inspector visually checks are all supply and waste lines and operating all faucets, toilets, and showers. Inspectors stress test waste lines by running the water during the inspection time. Reviewing these areas will assist the homebuyer in getting in front of any concerning areas.
Heating is another viral area that is thoroughly reviewed. The home inspector operates the heating system, confirms ignition, and checks the heating delivery system to ensure heat goes to every room. Inspectors utilize their temperature guns in each room to verify the heat is working and will provide the results in the report.
Inspecting all foundation and structural components of the home will ensure no defects, signs, or movement. Additionally, the inspector visually examines the roof systems to determine the age, type of roofing and identify any defects and issues. This way, we can offer solutions for repair or a budget for future roof replacement if needed.
It is pertinent that electrical systems are inspected during the process. The inspector confirms the amperage of the house and makes sure the house has the appropriate amount of power to operate the home. They will also ensure the main panel is safe and all wires match the breakers. This is extremely important to ensure the safety of the building and identify ways to move forward.
When the temperature is correct, the inspector will check the cooling for efficiency and functionality. They will also check to ensure the air conditioner is sized appropriately for that particular home. If the structure size is wrong, the system won’t work correctly, typically due to humidity or too much energy—another vital information area when purchasing a home.
Ever wonder about walls, windows, doors, and ceilings? The inspector visually inspects these items, ensuring they are safe and functional. Don’t forget about driveways and sidewalks. The inspector visually examines the driveway and any sidewalks for safety purposes. These are all areas you’d want peace of mind with when purchasing a home.
We inspect homes from top to bottom, moving up to the attic. By inspecting the attic, the inspector checks to see if there are any leaks from the roof and that the insulation is properly installed. Also, the inspector can discover electrical concerns, such as exposed wires and electricity that feeds the electrical circuits.
Speaking of installation, the inspector will check for the type of insulation and the functionality of the insulation. Insulation is important because it protects the interior conditioned areas of the home, including air conditioning and heating.
Two other areas include grading and water penetration. The inspector will check to ensure the house is protected from groundwater intrusion outside the home and check for water penetration, whether it is plumbing or environmental.
Last, and certainly, not least, the inspector treats the garage like an extension of the house – because it is! The inspector will visually inspect the electricity, plumbing, and roof.
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Never skip a home inspection in Philadelphia! All of these areas are extremely important to assess the safety and structure of a home so you can make decisions for any necessary concerns and future improvements.
That is why investing in a comprehensive home inspection is essential if you’re a prospective buyer seeking peace of mind. The insights gained from this assessment can help ensure a smooth and successful real estate transaction, giving all parties involved greater confidence and a more straightforward path to homeownership.
Attending the inspection is not mandatory for a home buyer in the Philadelphia area, but is highly encouraged. Home buyers are encouraged to attend the home inspection because buying a home is the biggest investment for most people in their lifetimes. As a buyer, you want to know exactly what you are purchasing and you want to know as much about the house as possible. Eagle Inspections provides an educational experience during the home inspection. You will learn about the home’s condition, how things work, and how to maintain the home. Attending the home inspection helps to make the buyer aware of costs and repairs required immediately and over time as well.
A home inspection can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours on average, this gives the home buyer a chance to spend time at the home. This is likely the most time the home buyer will get to spend in the home before it’s officially their home! Don’t skip it.
In conclusion, while you don’t need to be present during a home inspection in Philly, it’s highly recommended. Being present during the inspection will give you a better understanding of the condition of the property, and allow you to ask the inspector any questions you may have. Additionally, being there for the inspection can help you avoid any surprises that may come up later on, and give you peace of mind knowing that you’ve thoroughly examined the property before making a purchase.
However, if you’re unable to attend the inspection, it’s important to find a reputable home inspector in Philadephia, PA that you trust and ensure that you receive a thorough report. Make sure to review the report carefully, ask any questions you may have, and address any issues before finalizing the sale.
Overall, while you don’t need to be present, it can be a valuable experience that provides you with important information about the property you’re considering purchasing.
At Eagle Inspections, we provide a thorough and detailed inspection report with pictures and recommendations. Although the inspection report is very helpful, there’s nothing like being on-site during the inspection. You can ask unlimited questions and you can see and understand issues better in person. How often do you get a building expert in your home? Take advantage of that opportunity and utilize your home inspector. Contact us today!
A home inspection is a non-invasive visual examination of the condition of a home. The general home inspection will not reveal every issue that exists or could exist, but only those observed on the inspection date. A home inspection is intended to assist in the evaluation of the overall condition of the home. There are several issues that can be found during a home inspection, some more common than others.
The 8 most common issues Eagle Inspections finds during home inspections are:
If you need a home inspection in Philadelphia, PA, we are here to help. Our team of experienced and certified home inspectors is dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate inspections to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the condition of your property.
We offer various inspection services, including pre-purchase, pre-listing, and general home inspections. Our inspectors use state-of-the-art tools and technology to thoroughly assess your home’s systems and components, from the foundation to the roof.
We understand that buying or selling a home can be stressful, so we strive to make the inspection process as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Our team is happy to answer any questions and provide you with a detailed inspection report within 24 hours of the inspection.
Contact us today to schedule your home inspection in Philadelphia, PA, and take the first step towards peace of mind in your real estate transaction.
On average, a home inspection can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. The length of the home inspection depends on the age, condition and size of the house. Another factor is if anyone is attending the home inspection with the inspector. A home buyer with questions will cause the inspection to run longer. We encourage the buyer to attend and ask questions. We give out so much information about the house and think about it, how often do you have a building expert in your house? Take advantage of this! Our business is centered around educating home buyers so they can make better decisions. We bring experience, knowledge and empathy to the home buying process.
We find all sorts of defects when inspecting houses. This is true for both old and newer homes. Water is the most common defect we find. Water penetration from the roof, grading issues, and ground water penetration. These tend to be the most destructive. We spend additional time during the inspection making sure we address those concerns. Other common defects include electrical wiring issues, open junction boxes with exposed wires, faulty plumbing, missing or defective GFCIs, windows not sealing properly, missing handrails, etc.
As home inspectors in Philadelphia, PA, we look at several different components during the home inspection. We do our best to educate our clients and once we complete the home inspection, we write up a detailed report with our findings, what we recommend for repair, an estimate of the costs for each repair and we also provide home maintenance tips. The home maintenance tips we provide will help buyers prepare and see what they need to budget for in the future.
At Eagle Inspections, our inspectors and support team are always available to you after the inspection as well. Questions about the inspection, questions about your house years later, we are always available to you as a resource.