A. My background is in the commercial and residential construction industry. As a superintendent for 35 years, my responsibilities included but not limited to coordination of all trades to complete each project in a timely and cost-effective manner. I needed a sound working knowledge of all components, electrical, mechanical, roofing, masonry as well as any specialty items required to complete each project. I have an extensive background in historic renovations, and I have inspected several historic homes dating back a few hundred years.
Q. Do you preform radon testing?
A. I am an EPA certified radon tester. I use electronic equipment, which once uploaded generates a full report within an hour. The important ting to keep in mind is radon testing takes a full 48 hours in the home and during that time closed house conditions need to be maintained. Depending on the time constraints, I will set up a radon test 48 or more hours prior to a home inspection, so those results can be received the same day as well.
Q. Are you insured?
A. I carry Errors, Omissions and General Liability insurance.
Q. What if I have questions once I review the report?
A. I am always available to answer or any questions you may have about the report.
Q. What other inspection services do you provide?
A. I do pre-listing inspections for the seller. Part of that service, at no additional charge, I will update the report if the seller chooses to make the corrections to deficiencies I point out. Sometimes, not always a potential buyer will accept my report and wave their own separate inspection. Because of my background I also inspect commercial properties, including warehouses, and multi family properties.
Q. What are reasons I would need a roof inspection?
A. 1. If you note any staining in the ceilings or walls on the uppermost floor of your home. 2. If from the ground or an accessible window you see changes in the shingles, cupping, unusual wear or if moss is growing on the surface.
Q. Can I inspect my own roof?
A. Most inspectors will inspect your roof, there are various means to do this. If accessible and safe they will walk the roof, preferred method. Many like me also employ a drone for those roofs that are too steep or just inaccessible.
Q. How often should I get my roof inspected?
A. I always recommend that the average homeowner have the flashings check every few years. If you have a flat roof, I always recommend coating every 3-5 years. Most roofing companies will provide, or extend a warranty, depending on the conditions.
Q. What all is involved in a roof inspection?
A. The type and condition of the roofing materials is documented. The flashings are check as well as the top and sides of the chimney/flue. If there are skylights they will be checked. Whether deficiencies are found or not, picture will be provided to document findings.
Q. How much does a roof inspection cost?
A. The cost of the roof inspection is covered with a home inspection. If only a roof inspection is needed, I recommend a homeowner contact a reputable Roofing company. Most will assess the roof for no charge.
Q. What payment options do you accept?
A. Payments are due the day of the inspection. I accept cash, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle or Credit Card.
Q. How soon can you go out and inspect the houses?
A. An inspection can be scheduled with in a week.
Q. How long will it take after the inspection for me to get the report?
A. Reports are always sent to the client the same day, and in most cases within hours of the inspection being competed.
Q. Do your reports contain images?
A. I include images with my report detailing any deficiencies I may find. I also have images that will be informative only, for example, where the shutoff for the water is located or size and location of the heater/AC filters.
Q. Are you licensed and insured?
A. Pennsylvania does not require a license; they do however require that the home inspector be a full member in good standing with a non-profit Home Inspection Association. I am a member of both ASHI and InterNACHI. More detail information about PA requirements can be found here: https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=68&div=0&chpt=75
Q. Where does most of your business come from?
A. Most of my business if from referrals from either past clients or realtors. I do some advertising through sponsorships with local sports teams.
Q. What tools/equipment do you use for inspections?
A. I always have various ladders, flashlight, moisture meter and screwdrivers.
Q. How long will the inspection take?
A. Each inspection varies in length, depending on property size and number of deficiencies found. You should figure between 2 to 3 hours.
Q. Are you ok with me meeting you there during the inspection?
A. I prefer the client be there, after all this is one of if not the largest investment most people make in a lifetime. I am there not just to find problems, but to educate you on how equipment operates and how it should be maintained.
Q. Do you email the report?
A. I email reports, the same day, to both you and your realtor. You will receive a link to a secure server where the report is stored, from there it can be downloaded and saved as a PDF.
Q. Is there anything I should do on my end prior to the inspection taking place to ensure it can be completed properly?
A. If you are the homeowner, clearing paths to mechanical equipment, water heater(s), electrical panel(s) and sump pump(s). IF you are the buyer, having you agent ask for the access is recommended as well.