OUR STANDARD HOME INSPECTION
We’ll inspect the structure, systems and components of the home, inside and out, from the foundation to the roof, using the latest tools and technology. We encourage you to attend your inspection so that I can describe my process, explain my findings, point out important maintenance items, and answer all of your questions.
As a Certified Professional Inspector® trained by InterNACHI, we adhere to a comprehensive Residential Standards of Practice. This means that we will inspect all of the following, when visible and accessible:
As a Certified Professional Inspector® trained by InterNACHI, we adhere to a comprehensive Residential Standards of Practice. This means that we will inspect all of the following, when visible and accessible:
- Roof Structural Components attic, Ventilation & Insulation, Exterior Cladding, including EIFS, Porch & Deck Attached Garage, Driveway, Foundation Basement/Crawlspace, Electrical System, Plumbing System, HVAC System, Interior, including: Built-In Appliances, Ceilings, Floors & Walls Windows/Glazing and Doors.
- Following my evaluation, I will compile my findings in an easy-to-read report, which will include detailed descriptions and high-resolution digital photos of any issues I’ve discovered. I’ll email you your report the same day, and my job isn’t finished until you understand everything in it.
INFRARED
The newest innovation in home inspections
Why use an Infrared Camera?
Infrared cameras are the latest technology being used for fast, reliable, accurate building diagnosis in the entire range of building problems, from post-catastrophe fire and flood investigations to chronic leaks and moisture detection.
How do they work?
Thermography is the use of an infrared imaging and measurement camera to "see" and "measure" thermal energy emitted from an object. Infrared allows us to see what our eyes cannot. Infrared thermogoraphy is especially helpful in locating potential problems like electrical hazards and minor roof leaks before they get out of control. Our service can also assist with quality assurance by identifying missing insulation, plumbing leaks, and structural issues or defects. We can help to pinpoint troublesome issues such as roof leaks, plumbing leaks, and energy efficiency without the need for invasive or destructive investigations. Infrared technology can prove invaluable in saving time and revenue typically required to identify and correct these issues.
Some of the more common infrared inspection applications include:
NOTE: Although infrared thermal imaging is a far better diagnostic tool than the naked eye, it does not guarantee 100% accuracy, unless removal or destruction of components can be achieved to validate findings. When possible, other tools are used to verify thermal images, but even with these considerations we do not claim to have x-ray vision. Conditions may change and cause the apparent temperatures revealed on thermal images to be different at any given time. For example, if there has been no rain for several months, the infrared camera will not detect moisture from the roof leak since none is present.
Infrared cameras are the latest technology being used for fast, reliable, accurate building diagnosis in the entire range of building problems, from post-catastrophe fire and flood investigations to chronic leaks and moisture detection.
How do they work?
Thermography is the use of an infrared imaging and measurement camera to "see" and "measure" thermal energy emitted from an object. Infrared allows us to see what our eyes cannot. Infrared thermogoraphy is especially helpful in locating potential problems like electrical hazards and minor roof leaks before they get out of control. Our service can also assist with quality assurance by identifying missing insulation, plumbing leaks, and structural issues or defects. We can help to pinpoint troublesome issues such as roof leaks, plumbing leaks, and energy efficiency without the need for invasive or destructive investigations. Infrared technology can prove invaluable in saving time and revenue typically required to identify and correct these issues.
Some of the more common infrared inspection applications include:
- Electric system inspection and component scans
- Water and moisture intrusion inspection scans
- Thermal insulation inspection scans
- Flat roof inspection scans
- Pitched roof inspection scans
- Building envelope inspection scans
- Air infiltration/Heat loss scans
- HVAC component scans
- Energy Audits / Surveys
- And much more…
NOTE: Although infrared thermal imaging is a far better diagnostic tool than the naked eye, it does not guarantee 100% accuracy, unless removal or destruction of components can be achieved to validate findings. When possible, other tools are used to verify thermal images, but even with these considerations we do not claim to have x-ray vision. Conditions may change and cause the apparent temperatures revealed on thermal images to be different at any given time. For example, if there has been no rain for several months, the infrared camera will not detect moisture from the roof leak since none is present.
MOLDS AND YOUR NEW HOME
What are molds and where do they grow?
Molds, like most fungi, break down plant and animal matter in the environment. They can grow almost anywhere there is moisture and organic material such as in soil, on foods and plants, and in people's homes. To reproduce, molds release spores, which can spread through air, water, or on animals.
What should I do to prevent mold growth in my home?
The key to preventing mold growth is to identify and control moisture and water problems. Mold spores are everywhere, including your home, and they can grow on any surface that has sufficient moisture.
Common sources of moisture are:
How do I know if I have a mold problem?
You can usually see or smell a mold problem. Mold can appear as slightly fuzzy, discolored, or slimy patches that increase in size as they grow. Most molds produce musty odors that are the first indication of a problem. Mold can grow anywhere there is adequate moisture or a water problem. There are some areas of the home that are always susceptible to mold growth and should be part of routine cleaning to control mold growth. These are:
Mold Inspection and Mold Testing
Mold Inspections and testing are the means to identifying indoor mold problems. Most often inspections and testing work best in conjunction with each other, however, there are instances when certain questions can be answered with one or the other. Understanding the difference between inspections and testing will help you get the answers you're looking for.
For information about mold testing please call or email Agape Home Inspection.
Molds, like most fungi, break down plant and animal matter in the environment. They can grow almost anywhere there is moisture and organic material such as in soil, on foods and plants, and in people's homes. To reproduce, molds release spores, which can spread through air, water, or on animals.
What should I do to prevent mold growth in my home?
The key to preventing mold growth is to identify and control moisture and water problems. Mold spores are everywhere, including your home, and they can grow on any surface that has sufficient moisture.
Common sources of moisture are:
- Roof leaks
- Indoor plumbing leaks
- Outdoor drainage problems
- Damp basements and crawl spaces
- Steam from the bathroom or kitchen
- Condensation on cool surfaces
- Humidifiers
- Wet clothes drying inside the home
- A clothes dryer venting indoors
- Poor or improper ventilation of heating and cooking appliances
- Flooding
How do I know if I have a mold problem?
You can usually see or smell a mold problem. Mold can appear as slightly fuzzy, discolored, or slimy patches that increase in size as they grow. Most molds produce musty odors that are the first indication of a problem. Mold can grow anywhere there is adequate moisture or a water problem. There are some areas of the home that are always susceptible to mold growth and should be part of routine cleaning to control mold growth. These are:
- Bathrooms especially shower stalls, bathroom tiles, and shower curtains
- Window moldings
- The seal on the refrigerator door
- Surfaces on and around air conditioners
Mold Inspection and Mold Testing
Mold Inspections and testing are the means to identifying indoor mold problems. Most often inspections and testing work best in conjunction with each other, however, there are instances when certain questions can be answered with one or the other. Understanding the difference between inspections and testing will help you get the answers you're looking for.
For information about mold testing please call or email Agape Home Inspection.
