Blue Ribbon Property Inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual survey and basic operation of the accessible systems and components of a home, which can be reached, entered, or viewed without difficulty, moving obstructions, or requiring any action which will result in damage to the property or personal injury to the Inspector. The purpose of the inspection is to provide the Client with information regarding the general condition of the building(s) to assist the Client in determining what corrections or further evaluations the Client should have corrected, evaluated, or obtained estimates for repair prior to the release of contingencies.
Why do I need to have a home inspection?
To evaluate the home’s physical condition, determine what systems and components are present, and help the client make an informed buying decision before the release of their contingencies.
Can I attend the inspection?
Yes, we encourage all our clients to be at the inspection to receive an orientation on the inspection process and hear the general review of our findings at the end of the examination.
How long does a home inspection take?
The inspection will take from 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours depending on the size and condition of the property (Note – extended times may be required for homes over 4,000 SQF).
What’s included in a home inspection?
A home inspection includes a field examination of the home’s system and components as contained in the list of items outlined in the California Real Estate Inspection Association standards of practice (CREIA SOP) and a written home inspection report. The home inspection report provides written documentation of material defects discovered in the inspected building’s systems and components, which in the opinion of the Inspector, are safety hazards, are not functioning correctly, or appear to be at the ends of their service lives. In addition, the report will include the Inspector’s recommendations for correction or further evaluation.
What happens if there are problems found during the inspection?
Typically, this is a point of discussion and negotiation between the client, their agent, and the seller.
What is radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. Radon gas is inert, colorless, and odorless. Radon is naturally in the atmosphere in trace amounts. Outdoors, radon disperses rapidly and, generally, is not a health issue. Most radon exposure occurs inside homes, schools, and workplaces. Radon gas becomes trapped indoors after it enters buildings through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon testing is beyond the scope of a general inspection and would require a specialist for detection and testing.
How does radon get into your home?
Radon is an odorless, invisible, radioactive gas naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Radon can get into homes and buildings through small cracks or holes in the foundation and sub-floor. Radon testing is beyond the scope of a general inspection and would require a specialist for detection and testing.
What are some benefits of a home inspection?
The home inspection can inform you of significant material defects that may affect your buying decision and advise you on systems and components that may require service or replacement in the near future.
How much does a home inspection cost?
A home inspection cost is typically determined by the home’s square footage and any other structures beyond the house, garage, and grounds immediately adjacent to the home the client desires to be inspected. Examples of the additional cost may stem from pool inspections or other buildings on the property beyond the main house and garage.
How should I prepare for a home inspection?
All utilities to the property should be on, and all building areas should be accessible, including attic and crawlspace accesses. Personal items on or around significant appliances, such as the water heater or HVAC system components, should be moved to allow access to the equipment for the inspector.
Are you insured?
Yes, we are insured with General Liability and Errors & Omissions insurance.
What is the best way to contact you?
Phone 626-223-5571
