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Inspection Services

 

Pre-Purchase Home Inspection

The primary purpose of a pre-purchase home inspection is to make sure the structure is solid and safe. By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating unnecessary anxiety and stress in the future.  The inspection is a process where the structure and the systems of the home are visually inspected, tested and/or operated to verify proper operation or installation. Doors and windows are opened and closed, roofing materials inspected, air-conditioning and heating systems operated. Upon completion, a report will be sent electronically within 24 hours. Please see below for a list of what is inspected

 

New Construction Inspection

New construction inspections are performed at the completion of a construction, but prior to your final walk through with the Builder’s Customer Service Representative or Superintendent. It is always a good idea to verify that utilities (gas, water, and electric) have been turned on, either by you or the builder depending on the builder’s policy. The inspection should be scheduled a day or two before your final walk through with the builder. This will ensure that most, if not all, last minute items have been completed prior to the inspection. 

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Warranty Inspection

Warranty inspections are performed during the 11th month of your 1-year Builder Warranty. The inspection will be performed to verify that proper building techniques were used and that the various components of the home were properly installed. 

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Investor Property Inspection

Investor property inspections are performed prior to purchase, as well as periodically during ownership. Pre-purchase inspections are performed to identify defects prior to taking ownership to negotiate repairs or price adjustments which reflect the condition of the property. Periodic inspections for properties currently in your portfolio would ensure the identification of needed repairs following a long term tenant’s departure. Long-term tenants sometimes neglect to mention repairs and/or abuse the property during their tenancy. Identifying those problems early is the key to profitable ownership.

 

Seller Certified Home Program (Pre-Listing Inspection)

Listing inspections are a great idea for the homeowner who may not be in tune with the condition of their home. A great many sales are cancelled due to the buyer’s shock at the “functional condition” of the home. It may look great, but have serious technical, safety, or functional issues present without the owner’s knowledge. Having the home inspected prior to placing on the market is the ideal way to identify and either repair or disclose the issue found in the inspection report. Obviously, repairing the items would be the most beneficial towards completing the sale. However, there may be financial reasons where the owner can’t make the repairs. Disclosing them up front and pricing the home base upon that disclosure will often times produce a higher net sales price for the owner.

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Radon Testing

Radon is a cancer-causing natural radioactive gas that you can't see, smell or taste. Its presence in your home can pose a danger to your family's health. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in America. The U.S. Surgeon General and EPA recommend that all homes be tested for the presence of radon. Fortress Home Inspection is a qualified radon testing service, having completed the Radon Measurement Operator Proficiency course. I will use electronic measuring devices that are placed in the lowest level of the residence for a period of at least 48 hours, with the results available at the end of the test.

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Termite Inspection

When including a termite inspection with your services, I will perform a thorough inspection of all wood-destroying insects also known as WDI’s. This includes pests such as termites, carpenter bees, carpenter ants, and powder post beetles. If an infestation is detected or suspected,  I will then recommend treatment by a qualified pest control specialist.  I do not perform treatments and therefore have no vested interest in recommending treatments. You can be assured of unbiased and fair reporting. Termites are a common, yet potentially devastating problem for homeowners. These pests are fast-working and numerous. Termites can compromise a building’s structural quality by literally eating through the wood. The species we are most concerned with in the Midwest area is the Subterranean Termite.

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Inspector FX Reporting System

I will provide you with an unbiased, professional evaluation of the physical condition of the property. My findings as well as suggestions concerning repairs and maintenance are produced in an easy to understand computerized report with maintenance recommendations describing the home or building components in great detail. Your report will also include digital photographs of any issues and will be sent to you in pdf form within 24 hours of the inspection. Be weary of inspectors promising on site reports. I prefer to finish my report when I get to my office so I can 

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What is inspected?

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  • Roof, Vents, Flashings and Trim

  • Gutters and Downspouts

  • Skylight, Chimney, and Other Roof Penetrations

  • Decks, Stoops, Porches, Walkways and Railings

  • Eaves, Soffits and Fascia

  • Grading and Drainage

  • Basement, Foundation and Crawlspace

  • Water Penetration and Foundation Movement

  • Heating System

  • Cooling System

  • Main Water Shut-off Valve

  • Water Heating System

  • Interior Plumbing Fixtures and Faucets

  • Drainage Sump Pumps with Accessible Floats

  • Electrical Service Line and Meter Box

  • Main Disconnect and Service Amperage

  • Electrical Panel(s), Breakers and Fuses

  • Grounding and Bonding

  • GFCIs and AFCIs

  • Fireplace Damper Door and Hearth

  • Insulation and Ventilation

  • Garage Doors, Safety Sensors and Openers

  • And Much More!

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