The Complete Home Inspection Experience

AFFILIATES

The HOMEBOOK was first written and developed in 1983 in response to the overwhelming market demand for an accurate and easy-to-understand home inspection reporting system. The HOMEBOOK is now in its 27th edition. The HOMEBOOK remains unsurpassed in it's clarity, simplicity, and insight. It develops these three principals into a reporting system that delivers a comprehensive and invaluable education to the homebuyer. This, in turn, allows the homebuyer to make a more educated and informed purchasing decision.

 

The information and data in the HOMEBOOK is broken down into the eight systems of the home. Within these eight systems, we determine what problems exist. Once the problems are reported, you can use the HOMEBOOK to determine what the solution is and then how to take care of your investment.

STRUCTURE

The structure of the building is identified here in terms of materials used, type of construction, and the degree to which various areas is accessible to the inspector. Significant sub-components, such as foundation type, framing materials, etc. are listed and their idiosyncrasies are noted. The inspector also checks for major or minor problems in the various structural systems of the building, including the foundation, floor, wall, and roof framing.

 

ELECTRICAL

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The existing electrical system is checked for sufficient capacity and safety. The inspector evaluates the systems in terms of its current condition, and considers its suitability for future intended use. Upgrades and repairs are recommended where appropriate.

 

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

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The inspector assesses the capacity of the existing equipment to produce comfortable conditions. By considering the age of the existing equipment and the intended capacity, the inspector can approximate the life expectancy and recommend appropriate repairs or upgrades within a budget.

 

PLUMBING

The piping and the fixtures throughout the house are checked for functional flow and life expectancies. The systems are screened for unsanitary conditions and potential repairs, such as freeze vulnerability or spillage/overflow. The laundry equipment, tile work, and domestic water heating equipment are surveyed as well. Useful upgrades are itemized and near term replacements budgeted.

 

BASEMENT/CRAWLSPACE/SLAB

Water seepage probabilities and structural problems are evaluated and remediation advice is given. The inspector looks for possible problems areas that could cause structural problems, such as poor soil, surface drainage, close proximity tree roots, rotating stoops, etc.

 

KITCHEN

The appliances are operated and deficiencies noted. The inspector recommends appropriate upgrades and approximates the life expectancy of each piece of equipment. Depending on age and usefulness, the inspector may suggest a budget for repairs from complete renovation to typical minor problems such as appliance malfunctions, damage to floor seams, or inoperative door springs.

 

INTERIOR

The inspector scans the walls, floor, and ceiling surface for problematic conditions, such as visible evidence of water penetration, potentially dangerous or toxic materials, fire hazards, or security breaches. The ventilation and energy conservation aspects are checked and appropriate upgrades are itemized.

 

EXTERIOR

The inspector walks on the roof (where safe and appropriate) and notes preservation deficiencies. Roof runoff controls and landscape drainage is checked and improvements are recommended where necessary. Stoops, steps, walks, and drives are checked for voids, surface problems, and safety hazards.